Switzerland moved to first place in Group B after edging past Canada 2-1 in Vancouver, striking after the break to quiet the home crowd.
Jesse Marsch’s team went into the match aware that even a draw could secure the group’s top spot due to their advantage in goal difference. However, a sharp response from the Swiss in the second half turned the contest on its head, leaving Canada to settle for second place in the pool.
What happened
- The opening period produced little separation, with both sides reluctant to take control of the tempo.
- Ruben Vargas provided the decisive spark early in the second half, firing in a powerful shot just 40 seconds after the restart to put Murat Yakin’s side ahead.
- Switzerland extended their advantage 10 minutes later. Johan Manzambi punished weak defending, slotting a finish under Maxime Crepeau, who might have done better to prevent the second goal.
- Canada responded with a lifeline when Promise David scored with his first touch after coming off the bench.
- Despite that late setback for Switzerland, Canada were unable to force an equaliser, and the hosts ultimately suffered defeat.
The loss means Canada will not be able to remain in Vancouver for their Round of 32 matchup. With the current standings, South Korea appears to be the most likely opponent for Canada in Los Angeles, while Switzerland could be set to face Belgium.
