VANCOUVER — Switzerland punched their ticket to the World Cup’s knockout round as Group B champions on Wednesday, edging tournament co-host Canada 2-1 thanks to a pair of second-half strikes.
Ruben Vargas and 20-year-old Johan Manzambi each found the net after halftime to push Switzerland to seven points in group play. Canada, who needed only a draw to claim the group title, finished three points back but still advanced to the round of 32 as runners-up.
The first half offered little excitement, with both teams combining for just three shots on goal. The only real flashpoint came when Swiss captain Granit Xhaka and Canada forward Cyle Larin got into a confrontation over a quick free kick, earning yellow cards for both players.
Switzerland took control after the break when Vargas put them ahead early in the second half. Manzambi then made it 2-0 with a composed finish in the 57th minute. Canada substitute Promise David pulled one back with his very first touch after entering the game, but the hosts couldn’t find a second goal to level things up.
As group winners, Switzerland will stay in Vancouver for their next match. Canada will travel to Los Angeles for their last-32 contest.
