World Cup 2026: Switzerland Beat Canada to Top Group B, Both Advance to Round 32 as Bosnia and Herzegovina Eliminate Qatar
Switzerland secured top spot in Group B at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2-1 victory over Canada, while Bosnia and Herzegovina kept their knockout hopes alive with a 3-1 win over Qatar on Wednesday.
Despite defeat, Canada progressed to the Round of 32 for the first time in their history, finishing second behind the Swiss, while Qatar’s campaign came to an end.
Switzerland Finish First, Canada Make History
At BC Place in Vancouver, Switzerland produced a strong second-half display to overcome co-hosts Canada and maintain their perfect record in the group.
After a goalless first half, Ruben Vargas broke the deadlock just 46 seconds after the restart, converting Johan Manzambi’s cross at the back post.
Manzambi then doubled Switzerland’s advantage in the 57th minute after excellent hold-up play from Breel Embolo.
Canada responded through substitute Promise David, who scored with his first touch just 76 seconds after coming on in the 76th minute, but the hosts were unable to find an equaliser.
The victory ensured Switzerland finished top of Group B and extended their impressive World Cup consistency, becoming only the third nation after Argentina and France to reach the knockout stage in each of the last four World Cups.
Canada, meanwhile, advanced as runners-up and will now face the second-placed team from Group A in the Round of 32.
Bosnia Stay Alive, Qatar Exit
In Seattle, Bosnia and Herzegovina boosted their chances of reaching the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time with an impressive 3-1 victory over Qatar.
Teenage midfielder Kerim Alajbegović opened the scoring in spectacular fashion in the 29th minute, curling home a powerful strike from distance after beating two defenders.
Bosnia doubled their lead five minutes later when a dangerous effort involving veteran captain Edin Džeko resulted in an own goal by Qatar goalkeeper Mahmud Abunada.
Qatar captain Hassan Al Haydos pulled one back before halftime, finishing from close range after a delivery from EdmÃlson Junior to keep the Asian champions in contention.
However, Bosnia sealed the win in the 80th minute through substitute Ermin Mahmić, who capitalised on a scramble inside the penalty area to score for the second consecutive match.
The result leaves Bosnia on four points and in contention to qualify as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, while Qatar finish bottom of Group B with just one point and are eliminated.
Group B Final Standings
Switzerland – 9 points
Canada – 4 points
Bosnia and Herzegovina – 4 points
Qatar – 1 point
Switzerland and Canada are through to the Round of 32, while Bosnia and Herzegovina must wait to discover whether their four-point tally will be enough to secure qualification as one of the best third-placed teams. Qatar’s World Cup journey ends at the group stage.
