Jakarta, ThedailyID — Switzerland secured a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after defeating Algeria 2-0 at Vancouver Stadium, Canada, on Friday.
Murat Yakin’s side overcame a bright start from Algeria before taking control of the match. Algeria enjoyed more possession in the opening minutes and created the first clear chance in the sixth minute. However, Houssem Aouar failed to convert a cross from the right flank.
Switzerland punished the missed opportunity five minutes later. Johan Manzambi burst down the right wing and delivered a low cross. Breel Embolo finished from close range to give Switzerland a 1-0 lead in the 11th minute.
The Swiss controlled the rest of the first half. Ricardo Rodriguez narrowly missed with a long-range effort in the 25th minute. Denis Zakaria also headed just over the crossbar from a free-kick before halftime.
Meanwhile, Algeria struggled to break through Switzerland’s organized defense. Fares Chaibi tested goalkeeper Gregor Kobel shortly before the break. However, his weak shot caused little trouble.
Switzerland doubled its advantage less than a minute into the second half. Algeria’s defense made consecutive mistakes while trying to clear the ball. Dan Ndoye capitalized with a powerful strike into the bottom corner.
Algeria pushed for a response after conceding the second goal. Riyad Mahrez forced Swiss defenders into a timely block inside the penalty area. Later, Jaouen Hadjam fired over the crossbar from another promising position.
Switzerland nearly added a third goal late in the match. Fabian Rieder found space inside the box after another dangerous attack. However, goalkeeper Luca Zidane produced an excellent save to deny his left-footed effort.
The score remained unchanged until the final whistle. Switzerland advanced comfortably to the Round of 16 and will face either Colombia or Ghana on July 8.
