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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Sports

Switzerland, Canada Reach World Cup Last 32

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Context piece
  • Switzerland defeated Canada 2-1 to secure first place in Group B of the 2026 World Cup.
  • Canada advanced to the knockout stage for the first time in their history, finishing second in the group.
  • Brazil needs a draw against Scotland to qualify for the last 32, while Morocco aims for a large win against Haiti.

Switzerland secured the top spot in Group B of the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Canada in Vancouver on Wednesday. Goals from Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi propelled the Swiss to a crucial win, despite a late consolation goal from Canada's Promise David.

I know our team has heart, right? But I know that we have a group that will give everything to every moment.

โ€” Jesse MarschCanada's coach, reflecting on his team's performance and determination.

Despite the defeat, Canada achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in the country's history. They secured second place in Group B on goal difference, edging out Bosnia-Herzegovina. Prior to this tournament, Canada had never won a World Cup match, making their advancement a significant achievement.

Canada coach Jesse Marsch expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, "I know our team has heart, right? But I know that we have a group that will give everything to every moment." He added, "Itโ€™s been awesome, and thatโ€™s the disappointment, we just want to continue the energy thatโ€™s taken place here in Canada," reflecting on the team's journey and the support they received.

Itโ€™s been awesome, and thatโ€™s the disappointment, we just want to continue the energy thatโ€™s taken place here in Canada.

โ€” Jesse MarschExpressing the team's desire to continue their momentum after advancing to the knockout stage.

Meanwhile, Bosnia-Herzegovina kept their hopes alive with a 3-1 win over Qatar but must now await the results of other matches to see if they can qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. Elsewhere, five-time champions Brazil are on the verge of advancing. They require only a draw against Scotland in Miami to reach the last 32, though a victory would guarantee them first place in Group C.

He can play, heโ€™s doing well, he trained very well. Iโ€™m very happy with him.

โ€” Carlo AncelottiBrazil's coach, confirming Neymar's fitness and availability for the upcoming match.

Morocco, who previously held Brazil to a 1-1 draw, will be looking for a decisive victory against already-eliminated Haiti to potentially overtake Brazil in the standings. Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that veteran forward Neymar is fit and available to play, possibly from the bench, bringing valuable experience to the squad. However, winger Raphinha will miss the match due to an injury expected to sideline him for approximately two weeks.

He brings experience, understanding of the game, and helps the younger players.

โ€” Carlo AncelottiDescribing the value Neymar brings to the Brazilian squad.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.