The True Post (Web News) In the FIFA World Cup 2026, Switzerland defeated host Canada 2-1 after a thrilling match to take first position in Group B.
On the other hand, despite the defeat, Canada qualified for the knockout stage for the first time in its history. Neither team created many clear-cut chances in the first half of the match played in Vancouver, but the Swiss team maintained a better grip on the game. Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka played his 149th international match, while a dangerous attempt by Brill Embolo was thwarted by Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau with a brilliant save.
Switzerland came out on top in the second half. In the 46th minute, Ruben Vargas headed home a cross from Johann Manzambi to give his team the lead. Just 11 minutes later, Manzambi scored his own goal to make it 2-0. Canada, however, continued to fight back. In the 76th minute, substitute Promes David scored a goal just moments after coming on as a substitute, capitalizing on some great teamwork, but the hosts were unable to equalize.
With this win, Switzerland topped Group B and will now face the third-placed team from Groups E, F, G, H, I or J in the knockout stages on July 3. The Swiss team also set a unique record and became the third team after Argentina and France to reach the first knockout stage in four consecutive World Cup tournaments. On the other hand, although Canada lost the match, it managed to make it to the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time by securing second position in the group. The Canadian team will now take on the runner-up team of Group A in Los Angeles on June 28.
