Switzerland tops Group B, Canada makes history in World Cup qualifiers

Switzerland confirmed their top spot in Group B with a 2-1 victory over Canada in their final group match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The win ensures Switzerland a more favorable path into the knockout stages. Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi scored second-half goals, enough to give Switzerland a win and finish the group with seven points.

Canada secured second place in the group with four points. Despite the loss, the result marks a historic achievement for the team, as they have advanced to the knockout stage for the first time in their World Cup history. The match at BC Place Stadium was balanced, with both teams already assured of advancing and vying for the group's top position.

Switzerland came close to scoring early through Breel Embolo, but Canada's goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau made the save. Canada also had chances from Cyle Larin and Ali Ahmed, but Gregor Kobel kept Switzerland's net clear in the first half. The deadlock broke shortly after halftime when Vargas converted a pass from Manzambi to put Switzerland ahead. Manzambi then doubled their lead in the 57th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Canada.

In response, Canada's coach Jesse Marsch made substitutions, including bringing in Stephen Eustaquio to bolster the attack. Their efforts paid off in the 75th minute when substitute Promise David scored after receiving a pass from Nathan Saliba. This goal revived the hosts' hopes of equalizing, but Switzerland held on until the final whistle.

In another Group B match, Bosnia-Herzegovina defeated Qatar 3-1, finishing third with four points. They now await results from other groups to determine their chances as a best third-place team. Switzerland will face a third-place team in the round of 32 next week, while Canada is scheduled to play the runner-up of Group A.