Canada slips to 2nd in Group B after 2-1 loss to Switzerland, sets sights on South Africa

Neena Mae Rayos, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
June 25, 2026

(Photo Courtesy: FIFA)

CANADA – Canada’s historic World Cup run took a sharp turn in Vancouver, as the men’s team fell 2-1 to Switzerland in a sweltering Group B clash that ended their hopes of staying on home soil for the next round.

While the loss stung, the result still guarantees Canada a spot in the knockout stage for the first time ever, setting up a high-stakes Sunday showdown against South Africa in Los Angeles.

The game’s momentum shifted decisively in the second half when Switzerland struck twice, exposing defensive lapses that proved costly. Rubén Vargas opened the scoring after Canada’s backline drifted out of position, and Johan Manzambi doubled the lead minutes later amid chaotic defending. Canada’s lone goal came from Promise David, who had famously predicted in an interview that he would score in Vancouver. The substitute forward made good on his bold claim within seconds of entering the pitch, but the late surge wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit, leaving the team and fans heartbroken.

Historic moment for Canada

Despite this, Canada’s journey remains a landmark achievement in the nation’s soccer history. Before this tournament, the team had never earned a point at a World Cup; this time, they collected four.

The emotional weight of the moment was amplified by the presence of Ismaël Koné, who returned to the sidelines on crutches after breaking his leg in a previous match.

“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,” said Canada coach Jesse Marsch, “We’re exactly where we wanted to be – in the knockout phase.”

Canada vs South Africa

Now, all eyes turn to Los Angeles, where Canada focuses on a new dream: defeating South Africa to advance further in the tournament. A win would keep their World Cup story alive and potentially bring them back to Vancouver for the Round of 16.