Swiss coach Murat Yakin is eagerly awaiting whether three of his most influential players will be fit for Tuesday’s World Cup last-16 match against Colombia.
Forwards Johan Manzambi and Ruben Vargas left training early on Monday, along with midfielder Djibril Sow, and the team said they would make a further statement about their fitness if there was any risk they could not play in the match in Vancouver.
«Obviously if they have to leave training early, everyone is very irritated because this is going to be a very big loss. If they might not play tomorrow, it could be a big problem for us,» coach Murat Yakin told a news conference.
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«We will see what happens this afternoon because they will undergo some medical examinations, but this is football. You always have to adapt until the very last moment and we will see what will happen this afternoon.»
MANZAMBI IN SHAPE
With three goals and two assists in the tournament, losing the 20-year-old Manzambi would be a huge blow for the Swiss.
«He is a very valuable and important player for us, he has continuously improved his performances. He is a team player. He is not just a player you like to watch… he is an all-rounder. He has many qualities and there is still so much potential in him,» said Yakin.
«We are very happy with him and we hope he can be on the field tomorrow. We will do everything we can to get him back in shape.»
Injury concerns have not dampened Yakin’s enthusiasm for the game as the Swiss look to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since hosting the tournament in 1954.
“I’m excited, not just me personally, but I think all my players are excited and excited, and the fans in Switzerland and worldwide we really feel their support,” he said.
«Tomorrow’s match will be an immense match and big games are decided by big players. We are excited, this will be an open match. I think if we can hold our ground and play our style of football we can put a lot of stress on the opponent, but we will see what will happen tomorrow.»
Published on July 7, 2026
