By Blessing Nweke
Switzerland secured top spot in Group B of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating co-host Canada 2-1 in Vancouver on Wednesday, completing an impressive group-stage campaign and advancing to the knockout rounds as group winners. Canada also progressed to the Round of 32 despite the defeat, finishing second in the group.
After a quiet first half that produced few scoring opportunities, Switzerland emerged with renewed intensity following the break. Just a minute into the second half, Rubén Vargas broke the deadlock, finishing calmly after being set up by 20-year-old midfielder Johan Manzambi. Eleven minutes later, Manzambi doubled Switzerland’s advantage with a powerful finish after good work from Breel Embolo.
Canada responded in the 76th minute when substitute Promise David scored with his first touch after coming on, igniting hopes among the home supporters at a packed BC Place Stadium. The Canadians pushed hard for an equalizer in the closing stages, but Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel produced several crucial saves to preserve the victory.
The result left Switzerland on seven points from three matches, while Canada finished three points behind in second place. Switzerland will remain in Vancouver for its Round of 32 match, while Canada will travel to Los Angeles for its knockout fixture.
Swiss coach Murat Yakin praised his side’s performance, saying the team deserved its place atop the group and would use the upcoming break to recover and prepare for the next stage. Canada coach Jesse Marsch expressed disappointment at missing out on first place but said his team remained determined to continue its historic World Cup run.
Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Qatar 3-1 in the other Group B match, ending Qatar’s tournament hopes.
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