With the top two teams in the pool meeting in Vancouver, both knew that a victory would ensure first place in the group and, in theory, a kinder draw in the knockout stages.
Vargas and Manzambi’s second-half strikes were enough to ensure the Swiss finished on seven points, while Promise David pulled a goal back in the final 15 minutes for Canada but they finished up three points behind their opponent but reach the last 32 for the first time in their history.
“I know our team has heart. We have a group that will give everything at every moment,” Canada coach Jesse Marsch said.
Prior to the 2026 edition, the North Americans had never won a match at a finals but with their second-placed finish in the pool they will play the runner-up from Group A on Sunday in Los Angeles.
Switzerland will return to Vancouver to meet one of the best third-placed sides next week.
“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,” Marsch added.
“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.”
Bosnia-Herzegovina wrapped up third in Group B thanks to a 3-1 win over Qatar and will face an anxious wait to see if their four points are enough to extend their stay at the World Cup. (AFP)
Edited by Cecil Wong
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