Switzerland President Guy Parmelin congratulated the national football team after its historic run to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals, calling the achievement a first step towards the final following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Colombia. The Swiss secured their place in the last eight for the first time since 1954, marking the fourth time in their history they have reached this stage.
President Parmelin's Reaction
Parmelin, attending the tournament in Mexico, celebrated on social media platform X, writing: "Historic: Switzerland is in the quarter-finals of the @FIFAWorldCup. A historic step towards the final. Warm congratulations to the whole national team from Team Switzerland in Mexico." He later shared a video message, stating: "Congratulations to the entire team, and all the staff for this historic result! I enjoyed it; it was tense. And now it's a first step towards the final. See you next July 19 for that." Parmelin also posted videos of himself watching the match and celebrating with the Swiss delegation in Mexico after the decisive penalty.
Match Summary
Switzerland booked their quarter-final berth by defeating Colombia 4-3 on penalties after neither side scored in 120 minutes of football in Vancouver. The result means Switzerland have won multiple knockout matches in a single World Cup campaign for the first time. The Swiss played without injured rising star Johan Manzambi and withstood long spells of Colombian pressure. Gustavo Puerta tested goalkeeper Gregor Kobel from distance in the first half, while Colombia struggled to convert possession into clear chances. After the break, Luis Suarez missed Colombia's best chance by firing wide, while at the other end, Colombia's goalkeeper Camilo Vargas denied Fabian Rieder's left-footed volley.
Extra Time and Penalties
Extra time produced further drama as Jhon Lucumi's header hit the crossbar for Colombia before Swiss substitute Zeki Amdouni forced a crucial save from Vargas. The tie was decided from the penalty spot. Colombia's hopes faded when Davinson Sanchez hit the crossbar, and Cucho Hernandez saw his effort saved, allowing Ruben Vargas to calmly convert the decisive penalty and send Switzerland through.
Next Match
Switzerland will now face defending champions Argentina for a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals. The match is scheduled for July 19, as noted by President Parmelin, who expressed confidence in the team's ability to advance further.
