Switzerland took a major step towards the FIFA World Cup knockout stage with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group B, as substitute Johan Manzambi inspired a dramatic late surge in Los Angeles.
The match appeared destined for a goalless draw before the Swiss produced a devastating final 15-minute spell to secure all three points and move into a commanding position in the group.
Bosnia frustrated Switzerland for much of the contest and looked the more dangerous side after the interval.
Despite Switzerland dominating possession, Murat Yakin’s team struggled to create clear-cut chances, while Bosnia threatened to capitalize on several promising attacking moments.
However, the momentum shifted following a hydration break midway through the second half.
The breakthrough arrived in the 74th minute through teenage substitute Johan Manzambi.
The Freiburg midfielder, introduced only minutes earlier, made an instant impact by volleying home with superb technique to give Switzerland the lead. The goal transformed the match and forced Bosnia to push forward in search of an equalizer.
Bosnia’s hopes suffered a major setback five minutes later when defender Tarik Muharemovic was shown a straight red card for bringing down Breel Embolo as the Swiss striker raced toward goal. Reduced to ten men, Bosnia struggled to contain Switzerland’s attacking pressure.
Ruben Vargas doubled the advantage in the 84th minute with a composed finish before Manzambi grabbed his second goal of the evening in the 89th minute after a clever assist from Vargas.
The closing stages produced further drama as Bosnia substitute Ermin Mahmic scored a powerful long-range effort in stoppage time to reduce the deficit.
However, Switzerland quickly restored their three-goal cushion when Granit Xhaka calmly converted a penalty in the seventh minute of added time after Djibril Sow was brought down inside the area.
The victory leaves Switzerland firmly in control of Group B and on course for a place in the last 32, while Bosnia face an uphill battle to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
