Switzerland secured top spot in Group B with a 2-1 victory over co-hosts Canada in Vancouver, ensuring Murat Yakin’s side advance to the Round of 32 as group winners while Canada also progressed to the knockout stages for the first time in their history.
After a quiet opening half, the Swiss took control almost immediately after the restart. Just 40 seconds into the second half, Juan Vargas arrived at the back post to fire home from Johan Manzambi’s low cross and give Switzerland the breakthrough they had been threatening.
Manzambi then underlined his growing influence on the tournament in the 57th minute. The 20-year-old continued his impressive form by scoring his third goal of the World Cup, drilling a low effort beneath goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau to double Switzerland’s advantage.
The Swiss had already come close in the first half when Breel Embolo raced through on goal after being released by Ricardo Rodriguez, only for Crépeau to make a crucial save before Derek Cornelius blocked Manzambi’s follow-up attempt.
Canada struggled to create clear openings before the break, with Cyle Larin and Ali Ahmed both testing Gregor Kobel from distance without seriously troubling the Swiss goalkeeper.
The hosts mounted a late response after substitute Promise David pulled a goal back in the 76th minute, volleying home with his first touch just two minutes after entering the match. Canada pushed forward in search of an equaliser but Kobel preserved Switzerland’s lead with a vital save from David’s late header.
The result means Switzerland will remain in Vancouver for their Round of 32 tie on 2 July against one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams. Canada, who finished second in the group, will travel to Los Angeles to face the runners-up of Group A on 28 June.
Manzambi was named Superior Player of the Match after another standout display. Switzerland have now progressed beyond the group stage in six of their last seven World Cup appearances.
Canada coach Jesse Marsch remained upbeat despite the defeat.
“I know our team has heart. We have a group that will give everything at every moment. It’s just about managing the little moments. At the start we were tentative and not aggressive enough. But I will focus on the positives and on the response.
“I thought about going to five at the back at half-time to lock things up and I wish we’d done that. Alphonso Davies should be ready for the next match.
“We just wanted to continue the energy that’s taken place here in Canada. That’s the disappointment, building on one big win is so important. I’m so thankful for the energy and the country. But we’re going to go to LA and we still want to electrify our country. We’re exactly where we wanted to be, in the knockout phase.”
