The final round of 16 match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place on Tuesday in Vancouver, as Switzerland and Colombia face off, both aiming to match their best-ever performances in the tournament.

Colombia have established themselves as dangerous outsiders, conceding just one goal in the group stage. Their sturdy defense will be tested by Switzerland's breakout star Johan Manzambi, who has scored three goals and provided two assists.

Switzerland topped Group B with seven points, beating Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and drawing with Qatar. They defeated Algeria 2-0 in the round of 32, their first World Cup knockout victory since 1938. Colombia topped Group K with seven points, beating Uzbekistan and DR Congo, and holding Portugal to a draw. They beat Ghana 1-0 in the round of 32.

Manzambi, a 20-year-old midfielder, has become an integral part of the Swiss attack. Coach Murat Yakin called him "a very precious and important player," praising his versatility and potential.

Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo emphasized his team's adaptability: "Players interpret the game with simplicity, they understand the game. It enables the team to grow. We have many highly versatile players."

The Opta supercomputer gives Colombia a 41.9% likelihood of winning in regulation time, Switzerland 28.2%, and a 29.9% probability of extra time.

The winner will face Argentina or Egypt in the quarterfinals. Both teams have injury concerns: Switzerland's Manzambi, Vargas, and Sow left training early, while Colombia's Cordoba is sidelined with a groin injury.

Source: www.aljazeera.com