Johan Manzambi dazzled as Switzerland cruised into the World Cup last 16 with a 2-0 victory over Algeria, marking their first knockout stage win since 1938. The 20-year-old Freiburg forward set up Breel Embolo's opener and was a constant threat, becoming the youngest player to reach five goal involvements in a single World Cup since records began.
Manzambi's Masterclass
The Swiss president, Guy Parmelin, watching from the VIP seats alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, wore a red cap reading 'Switzerland great since 1291'. Manzambi, who had already scored three goals earlier in the tournament, added another assist in the 10th minute. Ruben Vargas played a neat pass to Manzambi, who drove at the Algeria defence, reached the byline, and delivered a cross for Embolo to finish. 'He is a precious player for us, a brilliant footballer,' said Switzerland coach Murat Yakin. 'He has so many qualities and is just improving match after match.'
Dominant Display
Switzerland doubled their lead 48 seconds into the second half. Dan Ndoye took Mandi's clearance on his left foot and fired a right-footed shot past goalkeeper Luca Zidane. Yakin, with his greyscale quiff and maroon glasses, emerged from the dugout to celebrate. The Swiss have now won three straight matches, scoring eight goals and conceding just two, after a frustrating draw against Qatar to open the tournament.
Algeria's Missed Chances
Algeria failed to test goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. Houssem Aouar missed a big chance in the fifth minute after Riyad Mahrez's dummy, and Ibrahim Maza shot wide after a deflection. Mahrez, in his final international match, later confirmed his retirement. Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic, who previously led Switzerland for seven years, said, 'Switzerland have a lot of quality and can compete with every team at this tournament.'
Looking Ahead
Switzerland will face either Colombia or Ghana in Vancouver on Tuesday. They should have added a third goal in the 81st minute, but Fabian Rieder sent the ball back across goal instead of shooting, allowing Zidane to smother. Despite that, the Swiss were never troubled and can now prepare for the next round in British Columbia.
