5 days · 2 summary articles
Switzerland crush Bosnia 4-1 to top World Cup 2026 Group B
Switzerland squander a 2-0 lead as Qatar snatch 2-2 draw in stoppage time
Switzerland secured their first World Cup 2026 victory on Thursday, defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 in Los Angeles to claim top spot in Group B after a nervy start to the tournament. The Swiss, captained by Granit Xhaka, had been held to a 1-1 draw by Qatar in their opening match, while Bosnia also drew 1-1 with Canada, leaving both sides needing a win to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive. At SoFi Stadium, Switzerland’s depth proved decisive as substitutes Johan Manzambi and Manuel Akanji struck twice in the final 25 minutes to turn a tense first half into a commanding win.
The match began cautiously, with both teams wary of defensive errors. Bosnia nearly took the lead in the 12th minute when Armin Hodžić forced a save from Yann Sommer, while Switzerland’s first clear chance fell to Breel Embolo in the 23rd minute, his effort blocked by Ibrahim Šehić. The deadlock was broken in the 48th minute when Xhaka, playing in his 120th international, curled a 25-yard strike past Šehić to give Switzerland the lead. Bosnia responded immediately, equalising through Miralem Pjanić in the 52nd minute after a defensive miscommunication between Manuel Akanji and Sommer.
Swiss coach Murat Yakin reacted swiftly, introducing Manzambi and Akanji at half-time. The changes reaped dividends: Manzambi scored twice, first in the 67th minute after a swift counterattack finished by Xherdan Shaqiri, and again in the 74th minute following a defensive error. Akanji added a fourth in the 89th minute, sealing the win and sending Switzerland top of Group B with three points. Bosnia’s hopes of progression now hinge on results elsewhere, with Canada and Qatar facing each other later on Friday.
Switzerland’s victory was built on resilience and tactical flexibility, qualities that will be tested again against either Canada or Qatar in their final group match. For Bosnia, the defeat leaves them in a precarious position, needing a win and favorable goal difference to advance. The Swiss, meanwhile, have rediscovered their rhythm just days before the Round of 16.
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