Colombia face Switzerland today in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a place in the quarterfinals on the line. It’s a winner-take-all matchup, meaning there is no room for error in the knockout stage.
Unlike the group stage, knockout matches cannot end in a draw. If the teams are level after 90 minutes, the match will continue into extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout to determine who advances.
What Happens if Colombia Beat Switzerland?
If Colombia defeat Switzerland—whether in regulation, extra time, or via a penalty shootout—they will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals.
The winner will face the victor of the other Round of 16 matchup between Argentina and Egypt, with a place in the semifinals at stake.
A victory would keep Colombia’s hopes of winning their first FIFA World Cup title alive.
What Happens if Colombia Draw Switzerland?
A draw after 90 minutes does not send either team through.
Instead, the match moves to:
- 30 minutes of extra time (two 15-minute halves)
- A penalty shootout if the score remains tied after extra time
One team must emerge victorious to secure a place in the quarterfinals.
What Happens if Colombia Lose to Switzerland?
If Colombia lose during regulation, extra time, or on penalties, they will be eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Switzerland would advance to the quarterfinals to play the winner of Argentina vs. Egypt.
Colombia vs Switzerland Match Details
- Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Round: Round of 16
- Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
- Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
- Venue: BC Place
- Location: Vancouver, Canada
Can Colombia Advance with a Draw?
No. Colombia cannot advance with a draw after 90 minutes in the knockout stage.
If the teams are level at full time, the match proceeds to extra time. If the score remains tied after 120 minutes, a penalty shootout decides which team reaches the quarterfinals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if Colombia beat Switzerland today?
Colombia advance to the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will face the winner of Argentina vs. Egypt.
What happens if Colombia and Switzerland are tied after 90 minutes?
The match goes to 30 minutes of extra time. If the teams remain level, the winner is decided by a penalty shootout.
Is there a replay in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage?
No. FIFA does not use replays in the knockout rounds. Every match is decided on the day through extra time and penalties if necessary.
Who does the winner of Colombia vs Switzerland play next?
The winner advances to the quarterfinals to face the winner of Argentina vs. Egypt.
Final Thoughts
Colombia are just one victory away from reaching the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A win sends them into the last eight, a draw after 90 minutes means extra time and possibly penalties, while a loss ends their tournament. With a quarterfinal berth on the line, Colombia and Switzerland are set for a high-stakes knockout showdown.