Switzerland reach last 16 as Manzambi sets tone in Algeria win

Switzerland are into the World Cup last 16 after a 2-0 win over Algeria. Johan Manzambi created the opening goal for Breel Embolo, and Dan Ndoye added the second less than a minute after the restart.

The result carries historical weight for Switzerland, marking their first World Cup knockout victory since 1938. Manzambi, the 20-year-old Freiburg forward, was central to the breakthrough and was later withdrawn midway through the second half with the game under control.

Algeria had early moments through Houssem Aouar and later Riyad Mahrez, but they could not seriously test Gregor Kobel often enough. Switzerland’s wide players, including Ruben Vargas and Ndoye, helped keep the match tilted in their favour.

Switzerland have now won three straight matches in the tournament, scoring eight goals and conceding twice across that run. They are set to stay in British Columbia for a last-16 meeting with either Colombia or Ghana, while any transfer talk around Manzambi should be treated as unconfirmed unless clubs provide clarity.