The excitement surrounding Johan Manzambi has surged following his stellar performance as a substitute, guiding Switzerland to a commanding victory and marking a turning point in their World Cup campaign. The 20-year-old showcased remarkable skill despite Freiburg’s recent heavy defeat in the Europa League final against Aston Villa. After entering the match with 73 minutes gone, he broke the deadlock with a stunning volley, firing a right-footed shot into the net of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Prior to Manzambi’s introduction, Switzerland had struggled offensively, racking up eight unsuccessful attempts on goal to add to the 26 they managed in their disappointing draw against Qatar. The only goal from that match had come from a Breel Embolo penalty. The team continued to falter in the final third until Manzambi’s arrival, where he not only scored twice but also assisted in setting up other critical plays. His first goal came from a powerful shot following a headed clearance by Amar Memic, while his second was a perfectly weighted pass that led to Tarik Muharemovic’s dismissal, leaving Bosnia and Herzegovina with ten players before Rubén Vargas and Granit Xhaka added two more goals.
Ermin Mahmic managed to score a consolation goal in stoppage time, sending a powerful volley into the net after a corner that was only partially cleared. Xhaka capped the scoring from the penalty spot after Memic fouled Djibril Sow, who had also come on as a substitute. Manzambi was instrumental in the buildup to Switzerland’s second goal, which Vargas converted with a low shot past goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj.
Reflecting on his performance, Manzambi stated, “It’s probably the best moment of my career so far,”
The match was anticipated to feature Edin Dzeko, who at 40 years and 63 days became the ninth-oldest player to participate in a World Cup. However, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s chances of progressing to the knockout stage now depend on their upcoming match against Qatar. Meanwhile, Switzerland finds itself in a strong position ahead of their clash with co-hosts Canada. Despite the relatively cool weather in Los Angeles, which provided a break during the first-half hydration pause, Bosnia and Herzegovina found some relief. Nevertheless, Switzerland, particularly Dan Ndoye, consistently pressured their opponents.
As the first half drew to a close, it was concerning to see Nikola Katic celebrating a goal-kick after thwarting another Swiss attack. This was reminiscent of his previous antics in other matches, where he has notably celebrated even minor defensive successes. Earlier, Bosnia and Herzegovina had their first opportunity on goal when Kerim Alajbegovic set up Dzeko, who attempted a delicate cross to the back post, resulting in Benjamin Tahirovic’s failure to connect properly. Just before half-time, Remo Freuler blocked another shot from Dzeko following a promising run by Alajbegovic.
Switzerland’s inability to finish their chances weighed on their minds as they headed into the break. This should not have shocked them, as Bosnia and Herzegovina has long been a resilient side, having drawn their last six matches, including two penalty shootout victories against Wales and Italy to reach this stage. This defeat marked their first since falling to Austria last September.
As the second half unfolded, the pattern continued with promising attacks faltering in the final moments. Manuel Akanji delivered a cross-field pass to Ndoye, who then attempted another weak shot on goal.
Before Manzambi’s entry, Ndoye had almost provided a highlight with an overhead kick that Vasilj managed to save, but joy was short-lived as the play was ruled offside.
Ndoye appeared to be the most likely candidate for scoring, prompting Amar Dedic to intervene by pulling him back, resulting in a booking. Dzeko, Bosnia’s all-time leading scorer, was taken off shortly after receiving a yellow card for a late challenge on Akanji.
Then, the young talent Manzambi stepped up to finally find the net. “We had to be patient but we’re a good team and I think we showed that.” remarked Switzerland’s head coach, Murat Yakin, about Manzambi. “He learned how to play on the streets,”
