Canada qualified for the World Cup round of 32 despite losing out to Switzerland. Goals from Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi condemned the hosts to their first defeat of the tournament.
Promise David netted a consolation goal, but Canada couldn’t find an equaliser and will have to settle for second in group B.
Despite the loss, the Canucks played well against a Swiss side that are knockout football regulars.
Canada have favourable round of 32 fixture
Finishing second in group B may have yielded a great opportunity for Canada to progress to the round of 16.
The Canucks will face South Africa in the knockout stage after Bafana Bafana finished in second place in group A after a shocking turnaround in form.
Hugo Broos’ side overcame a disappointing defeat to Mexico in which they had two players sent off. A 1-1 draw to the Czech Republic and a 1-0 victory over South Korea ensured a first knockout stage venture for the 2010 hosts.
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However, Canada will fancy their chances of defeating their opponents. The likes of Jonathan David and Cyle Larin are in fine form as the talisman for Jesse Marsch’s side.
With star player Alphonso Davies set for an imminent return, that will boost the co-host’s chances of making this a tournament to remember.
Against the Swiss, aside from a poor opening 20 minutes to the second half, Canada looked very comfortable playing a top side.
Marsch gave Nathan Saliba a well-deserved starting role after his impressive cameo versus Qatar. Saliba notched another assist for Promise David’s goal.
One concern may be the full-back positions. Richie Laryea and Alistair Johnston were often caught out by the impressive duo of Manzambi and Vargas.
If they are to overcome Bafana Bafana, Marsch will need to tighten up in these areas, although it must be said that South Africa don’t pose the same threat from such positions.
Goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau will hope to avoid a similar mistake against South Africa. When Manzambi struck home, the goalkeeper got a weak hand to the ball, allowing it to find the back of the net.
However, there are still promising signs for the co-hosts, despite losing their grip on top spot in group B.
While their opponents may be weaker in the next round, there is no guarantee that Canada will beat them. Especially considering that both nations will continue to create history in a tournament that keeps creating upsets.