Switzerland send Algeria home

Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye scored to seal Switzerland’s first World Cup knockout stage win since 1938 as they comfortably beat Algeria to book a last-16 place.

The Swiss took an early lead in Vancouver after some brilliant wing play from Freiburg’s Johan Manzambi, who beat his man before delivering a lovely cutback for Rennes’ forward Embolo to turn home in the 10th minute.

Nottingham Forest winger Ndoye then doubled their lead just 46 seconds after the half-time break with a fine finish inside the area.

It was the first time Switzerland scored more than one goal in a World Cup knockout game since a 7-5 defeat by Austria in the 1954 quarter-finals. Algeria - who were in search of their first win in the knockout stages - had a decent spell before the break - but with their best opportunity, Fares Chaibi hit a timid shot which Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel easily saved, and they rarely threatened again.

Not since they beat Germany in the 1938 World Cup last-16 - before the introduction of group stages - had Switzerland won a knockout game but they easily progressed here.

Murat Yakin’s side had a glorious opportunity for a third late on when Fabian Rieder had a clear chance at the back post with the goal at his mercy but he mishit the ball and it went towards a grateful Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, who had appeared beaten.

Switzerland will face the winner of Colombia and Ghana on July 7.