Substitute Johan Manzambi scored twice in a devastating late cameo as Switzerland defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1 to move a step closer to the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Group B encounter appeared destined for a tense finish before the 20-year-old midfielder transformed the game after coming off the bench. Manzambi broke the deadlock in the 74th minute, volleying home from close range just two minutes and 46 seconds after his introduction. Remarkably, it was only his fourth touch of the match.
Bosnia’s hopes suffered a major setback moments earlier when defender Tarik Muharemovic was shown a straight red card for bringing down Breel Embolo as the Swiss striker raced through on goal.
Switzerland quickly capitalised on its numerical advantage. Ruben Vargas doubled the lead with a composed curling effort into the bottom corner before turning provider in the closing stages, setting up Manzambi for his second goal of the night from close range.
Captain Granit Xhaka completed the scoring in stoppage time, calmly converting from the penalty spot after Djibril Sow was brought down inside the area by Amar Memic.
Bosnia managed a late consolation through Ermin Mahmic, whose stunning volley from a corner provided a rare bright moment for the Balkan side.
“It’s probably the best moment of my career so far,” Manzambi said after the match. “We knew why we didn’t start well and we had to be patient, but we’re a good team and I think we showed that.”
Switzerland had dominated possession for long spells but were frustrated by Bosnia’s resilient defending and wasteful finishing. Dan Ndoye came close on several occasions, firing into the side-netting early on before seeing an acrobatic bicycle-kick effort brilliantly tipped over the crossbar after the break.
Bosnia looked increasingly dangerous as the second half progressed, with veteran striker Edin Dzeko leading the attack during his second World Cup appearance. However, the momentum shifted dramatically following a hydration break midway through the half, and the Swiss seized control thereafter.
The victory moves Switzerland to the top of Group B with four points from two matches, while Bosnia-Herzegovina remain bottom of the standings with one point and a goal difference of minus three, leaving their hopes of progression hanging by a thread.
