Switzerland defeat Algeria for first World Cup knockout victory in 88 years
Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye netted to secure Switzerland’s first World Cup knockout stage victory since 1938 as they easily defeated Algeria to earn a last-16 place.
The Swiss took an early lead in Vancouver after some brilliant wing play from Freiburg’s Johan Manzambi, who beat his man before delivering a lovely cutback for Rennes’ forward Embolo to turn home in the 10th minute.
Nottingham Forest winger Ndoye then doubled their lead just 46 seconds after the half-time break with a fine finish inside the area.
It was the first time Switzerland scored more than one goal in a World Cup knockout game since a 7-5 defeat by Austria in the 1954 quarter-finals.
Algeria – who were in search of their first win in the knockout stages – had a decent spell before the break – but with their best opportunity, Fares Chaibi hit a timid shot which Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel easily saved, and they rarely threatened again.
Not since they beat Germany in the 1938 World Cup last-16 – before the introduction of group stages – had Switzerland won a knockout game but they easily progressed here.
Murat Yakin’s charges had a glorious opportunity for a third late on when Fabian Rieder had a clear chance at the back post with the goal at his mercy but he mishit the ball and it went towards a grateful Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, who had appeared beaten.
Switzerland will face the winner of Colombia and Ghana on 7 July at 21:00 BST at BC Place Vancouver.
