Granit Xhaka hails Switzerland's special generation after quarter-final berth

VANCOUVER: Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka hailed his side's blend of youth and experience after they booked their place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals with a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Colombia following a goalless draw here at BC Place on Tuesday.

Switzerland held their composure from the spot after goalkeeper Gregor Kobel produced a decisive save before Ruben Vargas converted the winning penalty, sending the Swiss into the last eight for the first time since 1954.

Reflecting on the achievement, Xhaka praised the current squad, describing it as one of the finest generations Swiss football has produced.

"I think this generation we have now is a special one. Hopefully we’ll see another one like it one day, but we’ve been waiting a long time for a group like this," Xhaka said.

The experienced midfielder highlighted the balance within the squad, saying the younger players have driven the senior members to maintain high standards while learning from their experience.

"We, the more experienced players, are being pushed by the younger ones, and at the same time we have to lead by example every single day and every single game,” Xhaka added.

“Of course, we try to pass on our experience, but above all the mentality that, even as a small nation, anything is possible at this level, in elite football."

Xhaka also praised the collective effort that has carried Switzerland into the quarter-finals, insisting every member of the squad and coaching staff deserved recognition for the historic achievement.

"From the coaching staff to the last player, we can all be proud of what we’ve achieved," Xhaka concluded.

Switzerland will now meet Argentina in the quarter-finals on Saturday, with confidence growing that their remarkable World Cup campaign can continue.