Menzambi shines as Switzerland beats Bosnia to nearly secure World Cup knockout place

Switzerland booked a 3-1 win over Bosnia on Thursday night in Los Angeles and moved almost certainly into the World Cup 2026 round of 32. Murat Yakin's team got the result despite the game being defined by substitute Johan Menzambi, who scored twice and helped set up another goal in just 18 minutes on the pitch.

The 20-year-old Freiburg forward was widely praised in the Swiss and international media after the match. The Swiss outlet 20 Minuten called him Switzerland's "super-sub" and said he led the team to victory with an outstanding display. DAZN journalist Anders Weiss wrote, "Why is Yakin allergic to talent?" arguing that one of world football's biggest talents is being left on the bench. "What a great player Menzambi is," he added.

Blik said Yakin's substitution made the difference quickly, noting that many had wanted Menzambi to start, and that he finished the match in the best possible way. The outlet added that he was involved in the second goal and sealed Switzerland's win, calling him the team's "joker." Journalist Daniel Romano wrote that everything looks easy for him and urged, "Let him play football. He must not sit on the bench again at this World Cup."