Switzerland produced a stunning late turnaround to beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 at the FIFA World Cup on Thursday, with all five goals in the match coming after the 74th minute in a record-setting finish.
The Swiss struggled to break down Bosnia for much of the contest and were repeatedly frustrated by goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, who made a series of important saves to keep the game level deep into the second half.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 74th minute when substitute Johan Manzambi reacted quickest to convert from close range after Ruben Vargas’ cross created confusion in the penalty area.
Manzambi’s introduction transformed the match. The substitute was also involved in the incident that led to Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic being sent off after bringing down Breel Embolo.
With Bosnia reduced to 10 men, Switzerland took full control. Vargas doubled the lead with a composed finish before Manzambi struck again in the 90th minute to complete a memorable brace.
Bosnia briefly pulled one back through Ermin Mahmic’s powerful effort, but Switzerland restored their three-goal advantage almost immediately when captain Granit Xhaka converted a penalty after Djibril Sow was fouled in the box.
According to ESPN Stats & Information, Switzerland became the first team in World Cup history to score all four of their goals after the 74th minute, while the match also set a tournament record with all five goals arriving from the 74th minute onwards.
The victory lifted Switzerland to the top of Group B, with Manzambi’s two-goal performance underlining the impact of coach Murat Yakin’s second-half tactical changes.
(with ANI input)
