World Cup 2026: Johan Manzambi sets historic World Cup record as Switzerland beat Algeria

Johan Manzambi became the youngest player since 1966 to be directly involved in five or more goals at a FIFA World Cup after helping Switzerland defeat Algeria 2-0 in the last 32 on Thursday.

The 20-year-old continued his outstanding tournament by producing another influential display, setting up Breel Embolo’s opening goal as Switzerland secured their place in the next round.

Manzambi had already impressed during the group stage, where he played a decisive role in Switzerland’s progress, and once again delivered against Algeria with another commanding performance.

His assist for Embolo not only helped Switzerland take control of the contest but also earned him a place in the World Cup record books.

According to Opta, Manzambi is now the youngest player to be involved in five or more goals at a World Cup finals tournament since records began in 1966.

At 20 years and 261 days old, he has registered three goals and two assists during the competition.

Manzambi joins elite World Cup company

The Swiss midfielder’s achievement places him alongside one of the competition’s most memorable young performers.

Before Manzambi, only Germany’s Thomas Müller had managed to record five or more goal involvements at a World Cup before turning 21.

Müller reached that milestone during the 2010 World Cup, finishing the tournament with five goals and three assists while still under the age of 21.

Manzambi’s performances have now ensured his name joins that exclusive list after another influential display for Switzerland.

Another decisive contribution

Switzerland once again relied on Manzambi’s creativity during their meeting with Algeria.

After controlling much of the game, the Swiss found the breakthrough when Manzambi produced a sublime assist for Embolo, who converted the opening goal.

That contribution took the youngster’s tournament tally to five direct goal involvements, underlining the impact he has made throughout Switzerland’s campaign.

His combination of three goals and two assists has made him one of the standout performers of the tournament so far.

Freiburg stand to benefit

Manzambi’s impressive World Cup campaign is also likely to attract attention beyond the international stage.

His performances have continued to strengthen his growing reputation, with Freiburg set to watch developments with interest as the transfer window approaches.

The latest display against Algeria only added to a tournament that has seen the 20-year-old emerge as one of Switzerland’s key players.

With another assist, another standout performance and a place in the history books, Manzambi’s remarkable World Cup campaign continues to gather momentum.