2026 World Cup: Embolo punishes Algeria, Switzerland leads at halftime (1-0)

02.07.26 FT World Cup

Switzerland

2

:

Algeria

0

Trailing after an early strike from Embolo, Algeria pressed forward but couldn't find the equalizer against a solid Swiss side in this first half.

Algeria actually kicked off this round of 16 clash against Switzerland in ideal fashion. As early as the 5th minute, a cross from Belghali—which Mahrez couldn't get a touch on—found Aouar, but his off-balance effort flew wide of the target. Three minutes later, Zerrouki was brought down in the box after a through ball, but the referee waved play on.

See also: 2026 World Cup / Switzerland - Algeria: the official line-ups!

Manzambi beats Mandi, Embolo opens the scoring

However, in the 11th minute, Switzerland struck with their first real attacking foray. Johan Manzambi outmaneuvered Aïssa Mandi after a 15-meter surge before laying the ball off to Breel Embolo, who simply had to tap it into the back of the net. A real cold shower for the Fennecs, who had started the match brightly.

Switzerland takes control, Algeria lacks cutting edge

From then on, the Nati took command of the game, dominating possession and playing out from the back with increasing ease after a cautious start. Aside from a few bursts from Manzambi, chances were scarce until the 42nd minute, when Chaïbi registered Algeria's first shot on target, though it posed little threat to the Swiss keeper. A minute later, a through pass found Belghali, who was just a fraction too late to connect with the ball.

Maza misses the equalizer just before the break

In first-half stoppage time, Algeria carved out their best chance of the half: from a Mahrez cross, Aouar set up Maza, but his poorly placed shot drifted wide of Kobel's goal. A squandered opportunity that could have sent the Fennecs into the dressing room on level terms.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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