Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi scored to secure a 2-1 victory for Switzerland against co-hosts Canada in Group B of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at BC Place Vancouver. Both teams progressed to the knockout stage with this result.
Manzambi, who had previously impressed with two goals as a substitute in Switzerland’s win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, started the match against Canada. Vargas opened the scoring early in the second half with a goal assisted by Manzambi, and later, Manzambi himself found the net with an assist from Breel Embolo.
Switzerland’s defender Manuel Akanji praised Manzambi’s creativity, highlighting his unique vision on the field. Canada managed to pull one back through Promise David’s goal in the 76th minute, but it wasn’t enough to avoid defeat.
Canada’s qualification for the Round of 32 in Los Angeles marks a historic moment as they progress from a World Cup group for the first time after two previous unsuccessful attempts. On the other hand, Switzerland’s victory ensures their advancement from the group stage for the sixth time in their last seven World Cup campaigns.
Switzerland will face the third-placed team from Group E, F, G, I, or J in the Round of 32 at BC Place, Vancouver, on July 3. Meanwhile, Canada, now placed second in the group, will travel to Los Angeles to meet the Group A runners-up on June 29.
