World Cup 2026: Switzerland eliminate Algeria in the round of 32 with an Embolo brace

The two teams, using familiar formations — a 4-2-3-1 for Switzerland under Murat Yakin and a 4-3-3 for Algeria coached by Vladimir Petkovic — produced an intense match in which Swiss tactical control proved decisive. Algeria, who dominated possession with 56%, came up against a solid Swiss defense and greater attacking efficiency.

Switzerland’s opening goal came as early as the 10th minute, with striker Breel Embolo converting a penalty from a Johan Manzambi pass. The goal gave the Swiss confidence as they managed to contain Algeria’s attacks, despite a yellow card shown to Farès Chaïbi in the 36th minute for a challenge deemed overly aggressive. Just after the break, Dan Ndoye doubled the lead, giving his team a comfortable advantage.

For Switzerland, the collective performance was supported by a defensive block built around Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji and Ricardo Rodríguez, while midfielders Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler made a major contribution to balance and ball recovery. Denis Zakaria and Johan Manzambi also carried attacking weight, bringing pace and creativity. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made several key saves, notably to preserve the scoreline in the final quarter of an hour.

For Algeria, possession of the ball was not enough to unsettle the Swiss setup. Riyad Mahrez, introduced in the second half, as well as Houssem Aouar and Ramiz Zerrouki, lacked solutions against their opponents’ disciplined organization. Despite a few attempts, Algeria were unable to reduce the deficit and exited a World Cup run marked by disappointment.

Swiss tactical dominance and efficiency pay off

Switzerland relied on a 4-2-3-1 system in which Breel Embolo was the main attacking focal point, supported by Johan Manzambi and Rubén Vargas. The work of defensive midfielders Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler helped stabilize play and effectively supply attacking phases. Coach Murat Yakin succeeded in imposing a compact and reactive collective approach, limiting Algeria’s threat and turning chances into goals.

Algeria control the ball but lack a finishing touch

Set up in a 4-3-3, Algeria favored extended ball circulation under the guidance of Ramiz Zerrouki and Nabil Bentaleb. Despite having the majority of possession (56%), Vladimir Petkovic’s team struggled to create space against a well-organized Swiss defense. The late introduction of Riyad Mahrez and other attacking substitutions were not enough to find a breakthrough against Switzerland’s efficiency and the solidity of goalkeeper Kobel.