Switzerland secured first place in Group B of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Wednesday after a 2-1 victory over co-hosts Canada, with both teams advancing to the knockout stage.
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‎Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi scored in the second half to give the Swiss all three points and a total of seven from the group stage. Canada pulled one back late through Promise David but could not overturn the deficit, finishing second in the group on four points.
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‎Despite the defeat, Canada made history by reaching the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time, having previously never recorded a win at the tournament finals before this edition. They will now face the runners-up of Group A in Los Angeles.
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‎Switzerland, meanwhile, will take on one of the best third-placed teams in the round of 32 next week as they continue their campaign.
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‎Bosnia-Herzegovina finished third in the group after a 3-1 win over Qatar and will now await confirmation on whether their four points are enough to qualify for the next round.
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‎The match in Vancouver also featured an emotional moment before kick-off, as injured Canada midfielder Ismael Kone appeared on the pitch in a wheelchair following a leg fracture, receiving a standing ovation from fans.
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‎On the pitch, Switzerland dominated key moments. Breel Embolo missed an early chance before Manzambi capitalised on a rebound opportunity. Canada came close through Cyle Larin and Ali Ahmed but were denied by goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
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‎After the restart, Vargas broke the deadlock, finishing from close range after a well-worked attacking move. Manzambi later doubled Switzerland’s advantage in the 57th minute after a goalkeeping error, before Canada responded through substitute Promise David to set up a tense finish.
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‎Despite late pressure and several set-piece chances, Switzerland held firm to secure top spot in the group and maintain their strong tournament form.
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