Switzerland and Burnley midfielder Zeki Amdouni posted a hilarious Snapchat picture expressing happiness at getting to play against Lionel Messi during the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal, saying that now that he is getting a chance to battle against the football icon, he can "quit football."
Switzerland Advances Past Colombia in Penalty Shootout
Switzerland marched into the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, beating Colombia 4-3 on penalties after the match ended in a goalless draw despite being taken to extra time in Vancouver on Tuesday. The victory marks Switzerland's fourth quarterfinal appearance in 13 World Cup appearances and their first since 1954.
During the penalty shootout, Colombia faced a setback as Davinson Sanchez had his spot kick smashed against the bar, while Cucho Hernandez's effort was saved by the goalkeeper, before Ruben Vargas delivered the decisive blow to book a quarterfinal clash against defending champions Argentina.
Amdouni's Lighthearted Reaction to Facing Messi
Posting on his Snapchat, Zeki said, "Jvais Jouer Contre Messi, Wih C'est bon j'peux arreter le foot," roughly translating to "I'm going to play against Messi. Yeah, that's it, I can retire from football." The comment reflects the excitement of facing one of the greatest players in history.
Switzerland has made it to the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal for the fourth time in its history, spanning 13 WC appearances. In the 21st century, they have finished in the round of 16 across four editions, including the last three. This marks their first-ever WC quarterfinal appearance since the 1954 edition.
Switzerland's Quarterfinal Clash with Argentina
Now, Switzerland will play Argentina, the defending champions, who survived a scare against Egypt, in the final eight clash on July 12, 6:30 IST in Kansas City. Goals from Cristian Romero, Messi and Enzo Fernandez helped Argentina overcome a 2-0 deficit against Egypt, with three goals fired within the last 13 minutes, sealing a quarterfinal clash in a FIFA WC epic.
It is for the first time that Switzerland, which missed the services of its rising star Johan Manzambi due to a knee injury sustained during training, has won multiple knockout matches during a single FIFA World Cup edition.
