Algeria became the latest African nation to exit the 2026 World Cup after a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in Vancouver on Friday morning. The loss extended Algeria's winless streak in World Cup knockout matches, having lost their only previous attempt to eventual champions Germany 2-1 in 2014. Switzerland, meanwhile, secured their first knockout-stage victory since 1938.
Early Pressure and Missed Chances
Algeria started brightly, employing a high press with fullbacks pushing forward. After only six minutes, Houssem Aouar miscued a fine opportunity when captain Riyad Mahrez allowed Rafik Belghali's cross to bypass him from the right. Moments later, Algeria appealed for a penalty when Manuel Akanji challenged Ramiz Zerrouki in the area, but the referee waved play on.
Switzerland Strikes First
Despite absorbing early pressure, Switzerland took the lead on 10 minutes. Breel Embolo tapped in from close range after Johan Manzambi's stunning run and cross from the left. Denis Zakaria could have doubled the lead five minutes later but scuffed his shot after Manzambi again sliced through the Algerian defense.
Algeria Struggles with Manzambi's Pace
Algeria consistently struggled to deal with Manzambi's pace. On 35 minutes, Fares Chaibi was booked for taking down the Swiss forward as he threatened again. From the resulting free kick, Zakaria headed over the bar. Chaibi could have redeemed himself after 43 minutes, but his weak shot was easily gathered by Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. The gifted 20-year-old Ibrahim Maza, who starred in the dramatic 3-3 group stage match against Austria, had the last chance of the half, skewing his left-foot shot wide after the ball fell kindly for him near the goal area.
Second-Half Blow
Algeria were dealt a major blow when Switzerland doubled their lead less than a minute into the second half. Dan Ndoye scored after the defense twice failed to clear the ball. The African team now faced a mountain to climb; Switzerland had yet to concede more than one goal in a single match at the 2026 World Cup. Four minutes after the restart, Mahrez could have reduced the deficit from Belghali's excellent pass, but his shot was struck straight at Kobel.
Algeria's Desperation Fails
Algeria's desperation for a goal increased throughout the second period, but clear chances were rare as Switzerland took control, with a Round of 16 spot now within reach. With 10 minutes left, an astonishing miss by Fabian Rieder maintained Algeria's fading hopes momentarily, but there would be no reprieve. Their wait for a World Cup knockout-stage win continues.
