In a thrilling encounter at the World Cup 2026, Switzerland edged past Canada 2-1 to secure a spot in the knockout stage. The Swiss side demonstrated their class, but it was a match that will be remembered for Canada's historic qualification – and a late flourish from Promise David.
Ruben Vargas opened the scoring with a well-placed finish after Johan Manzambi's pinpoint cross evaded Breel Embolo. Then, in the 66th minute, Manzambi doubled Switzerland's lead with a low shot that Canadian goalkeeper Milan Crepeau should have kept out – it was an error he'll be keen to forget.
Canada struggled to find their footing for much of the match, but they did show glimpses of brilliance. And when Promise David came on in the 77th minute, the game suddenly sprang to life. He expertly volleyed the ball into the net from just 12 yards out after a sublime pass from Ismaël Saliba, reducing Switzerland's lead and setting up a nervy finale.
Canada pushed hard for an equaliser in the dying minutes, with Andre Cornelius heading wide and David shooting straight at Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. In the end, it was too little, too late – although Johnston did have a headed chance that Kobel saved comfortably in the 89th minute.
With their win, Switzerland will now progress to face one of the third-placed teams from groups E, F, G, I, or J. Canada, meanwhile, will head to the United States for their next fixture against the runners-up in Group A – likely South Korea, although Czechia or South Africa remain possibilities.