Xhaka praised the substitutes for their crucial impact in Switzerland's victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

With a brace from Johan Manzanby, and goals from Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka, Switzerland defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 in their second Group B match of the 2026 World Cup. Sunderland midfielder Xhaka called it an important victory and praised the substitutes for their positive impact on the game.

The deadlock wasn't broken until the 74th minute of the second half when Switzerland's attack was cleared, and Johan Manzambi volleyed home from inside the penalty area to give Switzerland a 1-0 lead. In the 84th minute, Breil Embolo passed the ball to Ruben Vargas, who slotted it home to extend Switzerland's lead to 2-0 against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In the 90th minute, Johan Manzambi received a pass back from Ruben Vargas and slotted the ball home, making it 3-0. In stoppage time of the second half, a corner kick from Bosnia and Herzegovina was saved by Swiss goalkeeper Köber, but Ermin Mahmić fired a shot into the net, pulling one back for Bosnia and Herzegovina to 1-3.

Four minutes later, Amar Memic fouled Swiss midfielder Gabriel Sow, resulting in a penalty for Switzerland. Xhaka then converted the penalty. Ultimately, Switzerland defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1. Switzerland currently sits in second place in Group B with 4 points, level on points with leaders Canada.

In an interview, Swiss captain Granit Xhaka said, "Johann Manzambé is still very young and has a very bright future. This time I chose to prioritize experience, so I took the penalty. This victory is significant because we didn't get off to a good start in our first game against Qatar. After two games, we have four points, and the team has played exceptionally well."

“I don’t think we were much better in the second half than in the first half. The difference is that we took our chances in the second half, but not in the first. We controlled the game well both with and without the ball and created many chances, just like we did against Qatar. We are very happy to get these three points, and this victory is very important.”

Xhaka pointed out, "I think the substitutions were the key to the game. Everyone had to be ready, and they proved why we have such a deep squad. There was a strong competitive atmosphere within the team, and the substitutes changed the game; they had a decisive impact."

In addition, Swiss coach Jacques said, "The most important thing is that we keep our players on the field in good physical condition, which is our game strategy. We must remain patient and focused in the game. The adjustments we made after the second water break were very important, and that is where our strength lies."

"We brought on very fast players. The opponents had already made a lot of running, which created gaps in their defense."

Image source: Internet