Manzambi double propels Switzerland to win against Bosnia

Substitute Johan Manzambi scores twice in a thrilling final 20 minutes, as Switzerland beat Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1 to edge towards a place in the World Cup round of 32.

Substitute Johan Manzambi scored twice in a stunning late surge as Switzerland defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1 in a World Cup group stage match at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, moving to the brink of qualification for the round of 32. The first half was a tense affair, with Switzerland dominating possession but struggling to break down a well-organized Bosnian defense. Midfielder Denis Zakaria came close with a long-range effort that was tipped over by goalkeeper Ibrahim Sehic, while striker Breel Embolo had a goal ruled out for offside after a slick through ball from Zakaria. Bosnia, meanwhile, relied on counter-attacks, with Edin Dzeko forcing a save from Yann Sommer with a powerful drive. The deadlock was broken in the 73rd minute when Manzambi, who had replaced Embolo just three minutes earlier, latched onto a cross from the left and stabbed the ball home from close range. The Swiss fans erupted, and their joy doubled just five minutes later when Manzambi rose highest to meet Xherdan Shaqiri's corner, directing a glancing header into the far corner to make it 2-0. Bosnia pulled one back in the 82nd minute through defender Sead Kolasinac, who powered home a header from a corner kick, giving the visitors hope. However, Switzerland restored their two-goal cushion in stoppage time when Zakaria converted a penalty after a handball in the box. Manzambi thought he had completed a hat-trick earlier, but his close-range finish was ruled out for offside. The victory leaves Switzerland top of Group G with six points from two matches, needing only a draw in their final group game to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Bosnia, meanwhile, are bottom with zero points and face an uphill battle to qualify. Switzerland coach praised his team's resilience and the impact of Manzambi, saying, "Johan changed the game with his energy and movement. He is a constant threat in the box." Bosnia's coach lamented defensive lapses, stating, "We competed well for 70 minutes, but individual errors cost us dearly." With one foot in the round of 32, Switzerland will look to finish the group stage strongly, while Bosnia must win their final match and hope for other results to go their way. The Swiss performance has sent a warning to potential opponents: they are a team that can strike late and decisively.

Manzambi double propels Switzerland to win against Bosnia

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