Switzerland finally ended their World Cup knockout hoodoo by beating Algeria 2-0 to set up a last-16 clash with either Colombia or Ghana.
The Swiss, who have been eliminated in each of their past seven knockout games at the tournament, brought an end to 88 years of knockout pain as goals from Breel Embolo (10) and Nottingham Forest’s Dan Ndoye (46) secured victory in Vancouver.
Algeria had made a bright start to the game but they could not capitalise as Switzerland shackled former Man City star Riyad Mahrez
Switzerland had a late opportunity to add to their tally but substitute Fabian Rieder inexplicably failed to convert from close range, but it was the only negative on what was a comfortable evening for Murat Yakin’s side.
Switzerland will now face the winner of the last 32 tie between Colombia and Ghana next Tuesday (kick off 9pm) in Vancouver.
More to follow.
Switzerland’s Breel Embolo (7) celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal
The key moments from Vancouver…
10: GOAL! After Algeria’s bright start, Manzambi’s burst forward and cross set up Embolo for the Swiss opener.
46: GOAL! Switzerland made the perfect start to the half as Forest winger Ndoye’s fine finish doubled the lead.
50: CHANCE! Mahrez’s only real opportunity was blocked by his former Man City team-mate Manuel Aknaji.
81: MISS! Substitute Fabian Rieder missed an open goal as Wwitzerland missed the chance to add a third.
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