Soccer-Swiss anger tinged with pride after top eight World Cup finish

Switzerland’s World Cup quarter-final exit left coach Murat Yakin frustrated, but the team views its run to the last eight as a success, with officials emphasizing a foundation for future tournaments. Switzerland lost 3-1 to Argentina in Kansas City on Saturday after being reduced to 10 men following an equalizer in the second half. Striker Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, following a VAR review for simulation. Yakin said the decision-making involved more than the champions and the referee, pointing to the presence of 70,000 Argentine fans. He also argued young players are being integrated consistently and said he wants to remain in charge. The 51-year-old coach, who has 49 caps and has led the side for five years, has two more years on his contract. Switzerland next will play in Nations League’s second tier, facing North Macedonia, Scotland, and Slovenia after being relegated in 2024.