Predictions
Switzerland 2-1 Canada: Vargas and Manzambi Win Group B for the Swiss
Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi struck in the second half as Switzerland beat co-hosts Canada 2-1 in Vancouver to win Group B unbeaten. Both teams still advance to the round of 32.
Switzerland won the Group B decider, coming from a cagey start to beat co-hosts Canada 2-1 at BC Place in Vancouver and finish the group stage unbeaten. Two quick second-half goals settled a tight contest, and although both teams were already on course to qualify, it was the Swiss who took top spot.
How the game unfolded
The first half was even and goalless, with Canada’s crowd roaring the hosts forward. The breakthrough came straight after the restart: Ruben Vargas finished in the 46th minute, with Johan Manzambi providing the assist. Eleven minutes later Manzambi turned scorer himself (57’) to double the lead.
Canada responded through Promise David, who pulled one back in the 76th minute, setting up a tense finish, but Switzerland saw the game out to seal first place.
Final Group B table
Switzerland top the group with seven points from three games. Canada finish second on four points, ahead of Bosnia & Herzegovina on goal difference, and both the Swiss and the co-hosts go through to the round of 32. Bosnia, also on four points after their 3-1 win over Qatar, finish third and must wait on the best third-placed teams maths. Qatar are eliminated.
What it means
A first-place finish keeps Switzerland on the favourable side of the bracket, while Canada’s run to the knockout stage is a milestone for one of the three host nations. For the full day across Groups B and C, see our June 24 recap.
Scoreline, scorers and standings are confirmed final data, cross-checked against official FIFA match data and major outlets (FIFA.com, CBS Sports, Fox Sports, Olympics.com). This article contains no estimated or projected scores.