Embolo, Ndoye fire Switzerland past Algeria into World Cup last 16

Next up for Switzerland is a World Cup last-16 clash with Colombia or Ghana

Photo: Reuters

Switzerland eased past Algeria 2-0 on Thursday to book their place in the World Cup round of 16, with Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye on target.

• The Swiss opener was crafted by 20-year-old talent Johan Manzambi, who surged down the left flank before drilling a low ball across the face of goal for Embolo to convert.

• The assist was Manzambi's second of the tournament. The youngster has also scored three goals in four World Cup appearances despite making only two starts.

• Switzerland doubled their advantage a minute into the second half when Ndoye produced a composed finish beyond Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane after the ball broke kindly to him on the edge of the box.

• Switzerland, who were eliminated in the round of 16 in 2006, 2014, 2018 and 2022, will hope this time to break that cycle of disappointment. The three-times World Cup quarter-finalists have not reached the last eight since 1954.

• Switzerland will remain in Vancouver, where they will face either Colombia or Ghana in the last 16 on Tuesday.