Goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye ensured a 2-0 win for Switzerland over Algeria at the BC Place Vancouver.

Embolo tapped into an empty net on 10 minutes, benefitting from the skill of Johan Manzambi, before Dan Ndoye’s early second-half strike saw the Swiss pull clear.

It was a first knockout win on the world stage since 1998 for Switzerland, who will remain in Vancouver as they now prepare to face Colombia or Ghana.

It also means they have reached the round of 16 in back-to-back World Cups while Algeria could not repeat the heroics of 2014 that saw them reach the same stage.

Algeria impress albeit magic from Manzambi

The first half was full of attacking play from both sides as the combined four shots on target were evenly spread.

Only six minutes in, and Algeria had created a meaningful chance with Riyad Mahrez’s cross not converted by Houssem Aouar.

Manzambi’s brilliant dribbling was rewarded with Embolo tapping into the back of the net as the Swiss punished Algeria for not scoring despite their promising start.

Former Chelsea defender Denis Zakaria wasted the chance to double Switzerland’s lead, following a Ruben Vargas free-kick, while Algeria created a few chances of their own.

Switzerland’s defence, led by former Champions League winner Manuel Akanji, had lots of defensive work to do throughout the half with Fares Chaibi and Ibrahim Maza both having efforts on goal, however neither were able to fully test Swiss keeper Gregor Kobel.

A dream second-half start

It only took 48 seconds for the European side to double their advantage in the second half.

The Swiss showed their intent from kick-off, but when Zakaria’s cross was dealt with, Algeria looked to have cleared the danger, only for Ndoye to hit an unerring shot past Luca Zidane.

Attack is the best form of defence

Despite going 2-0 down early on in the second half, Algeria continued to be waved forward by manager Vladimir Petkovic.

Mahrez spear-headed most of the African side’s attacks, but the four-time Premier League winner could not add his name to the scoresheet when he failed to convert from Rafik Belghali’s cross.

However, Algeria taking more risks to get back into the game left more space to attack for Switzerland, who still looked the team more likely to score next.

In the 58th minute, they nearly put the result beyond all doubt but Embolo could not connect with Vargas’ fearsome cross across the box.

The attacking from Switzerland did not stop there with Zidane making a point-blank range save to deny Fabian Rieder scoring his first international goal, with Remo Freuler having a fierce shot saved in injury-time.

What is next?

While Algeria will return home having failed to win a knockout game at the World Cup, Switzerland will remain in Canada to face one of Colombia and Ghana next Tuesday.