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Switzerland national football team booked their place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954 after defeating Colombia national football team 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a goalless draw in Tuesday's Round of 16 clash.
After 120 minutes failed to separate the two sides, Switzerland held their nerve from the penalty spot to secure a last-eight showdown with defending champions Argentina national football team, led by Lionel Messi, on Saturday in Kansas City.
The match was evenly contested, with neither side able to break the deadlock during regulation time or extra time despite creating several scoring opportunities.
Colombia came closest to finding the winner late in the contest. Jhon Lucumà struck the crossbar with a powerful header from a corner, while Deiber Campaz squandered a golden chance from close range before later forcing Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel into an excellent save with a long-range effort.
Switzerland also threatened in extra time, but Zeki Amdouni was denied by Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.
The game was ultimately decided in a tense penalty shootout.
Colombia's hopes suffered an early setback when Davinson Sánchez struck the crossbar with his spot-kick.
Although Switzerland's Manuel Akanji also missed his penalty, Colombia failed to capitalise as Cucho Hernández saw his effort brilliantly saved by Kobel.
With the pressure mounting, Ruben Vargas calmly converted Switzerland's decisive fifth penalty to seal a 4-3 shootout victory and spark jubilant celebrations among the Swiss players and supporters.
The victory sends Switzerland into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in more than seven decades and sets up a blockbuster encounter against Argentina as they seek to continue their impressive tournament run.
