Manzambi Inspires Switzerland to Top of Group B

Kathmandu — Johan Manzambi delivered a decisive performance off the bench as Switzerland defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 4–1 in their FIFA World Cup Group B match, moving to the top of the group standings.

The match, played in Los Angeles, remained competitive for much of the contest before Switzerland took full control in the closing stages. Manzambi scored twice after coming on as a substitute, while Ruben Vargas and captain Granit Xhaka added one goal each. Ermin Mahmic scored Bosnia’s only goal.

The first half ended goalless, with Bosnia maintaining defensive discipline and frustrating Switzerland’s attack. However, the momentum changed late in the second half after Swiss coach Murat Yakin introduced Manzambi, whose pace and sharp movement immediately strengthened Switzerland’s attacking play.

Manzambi broke the deadlock in the 74th minute with an excellent finish, giving Switzerland a 1–0 lead. The match then turned further in Switzerland’s favor after Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic was shown a straight red card for a foul on Breel Embolo.

Reduced to 10 players, Bosnia struggled to hold its defensive shape. Switzerland quickly took advantage, with Vargas scoring in the 86th minute to double the lead. Manzambi then scored his second goal in the 90th minute from a Vargas assist, putting Switzerland 3–0 ahead.

Bosnia pulled one goal back in stoppage time through Mahmic, but the comeback attempt was short-lived. Xhaka converted a penalty in the 97th minute to seal a convincing 4–1 victory for Switzerland.

With the win, Switzerland moved to four points from two matches and strengthened its chances of reaching the knockout stage. The result was an important response after its unexpected 1–1 draw against Qatar in the opening match.

For Bosnia, the defeat was a major setback. After collecting one point from its first match, Bosnia now faces pressure to win its final group game against Qatar. The team had managed to keep Switzerland under control for long periods, but the red card and late defensive collapse proved costly.

Switzerland will now face Canada in its final Group B match. With four points and growing confidence, the Swiss side is well placed in the race for the knockout round. Manzambi’s impact also gives Yakin a valuable attacking option as the tournament enters a decisive stage.

The victory was more than just three points for Switzerland. It showed the team’s depth, tactical flexibility and ability to change the course of a match from the bench. Manzambi’s late heroics have given Switzerland fresh momentum in its World Cup campaign.