Vargas, Manzambi strike as Switzerland top group

Switzerland secured top spot in Group B with a 2-1 victory over co-hosts Canada on Wednesday, advancing to the World Cup knockout stage. The win means Switzerland finishes the group with seven points, while Canada also progresses as the second-place team.

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Although there was little quality on display from either side in a subdued first half, the Swiss came out firing after the break.

After a subdued first half marked by few attempts on goal and two yellow cards, Switzerland came alive after the break. Johan Manzambi set up Ruben Vargas for the opening goal just a minute into the second period. Manzambi then doubled Switzerland's lead 11 minutes later with an emphatic finish.

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Just a minute into the second period, 20-year-old attacker Manzambi shifted the ball to Vargas, who had plenty of space to set himself before coolly finishing at the near post.

Canada pulled a goal back in the 76th minute through substitute Promise David, who scored with his first touch after receiving a pass from Nathan Saliba. Despite a late surge and vocal support from the home crowd, Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made several crucial saves to secure the win. Switzerland will remain in Vancouver for their last-32 tie, while Canada will travel to Los Angeles for their next game.

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Switzerland doubled their lead 11 minutes later. Breel Embolo held the ball up in the penalty area and laid it off for Manzambi who finished emphatically.