FIFA World Cup: Canada loses to Switzerland, finishing 2nd in Group B
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CTVNewsVancouver.ca Staff
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CTV National News: Canada loses 2-1 to Switzerland, advances to World Cup knockout round
CTV National News: Electric atmosphere in Toronto as Canada took on Switzerland
CTV National News: Canada’s final group stage game a special day for soccer fans in Brampton
Canada’s Promise David scores Canada’s first goal against Switzerland to close the gap 2-1
Team Canada fans showing their excitement ahead of Switzerland match
Fans pack Halifax bar to watch Canada take on Switzerland
It didn’t go exactly the way the fans inside B.C. Place would have hoped, but Canada went toe-to-toe with a team that came into the tournament in the top 20 of FIFA’s world rankings and nearly got the result they needed Wednesday.
After falling into a 2-0 deficit in the second half, Canada battled back, cutting the deficit in half through a goal from Promise David in the 76th minute.
Despite a flurry of chances in the closing minutes, Canada was unable to tie the game, which finished 2-1.
The result means Switzerland will take the top spot in Group B and Canada will finish as the runner-up, advancing to the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time ever.
Here’s everything that happened Wednesday.
2:31 p.m. PT: ‘Win a knockout game’
Speaking to TSN after the match, Canadian defender Alistair Johnston said his team was disappointed to have conceded two “cheap goals” during a brief span at the start of the second half.
Like his coach, however, Johnston expressed pride in the way the team responded after falling behind. He described Team Canada as “battle tested” after reaching the semifinals of the 2024 Copa America and playing top competition in the 2022 World Cup.
2:28 p.m. PT: ‘We still have a chance,’ Toronto fan says
At the Canada House watch party, one Toronto fan says that while it is not the result that he wanted, Canada is still moving on to the next round.
“We would have liked to win or tie, but it’s not the worst thing. I don’t think it’s the worst thing, to be honest,” he tells CTV Toronto videographer Jess Smith.
“We are progressing for the first time ever. That is what matters. We lost the battle today, but the war is still happening. We still have the chance.”
Another fan says he still has faith that Canada can go far in the tournament. “We’re not giving up hope,” he says.
Toronto fan, Canada House A Toronto fan speaks with CTV News at the Canada House watch party following the loss to Switzerland.
Despite the bittersweet end, some fans who watched the match at Toronto Fan Fest are optimistic that Canada will bounce back on Sunday for their first trip to the World Cup’s knockout round.
“I think they got it. The spirit is here. Canada is here. I think it will show on Sunday,” one fan told CP24 reporter Phil Perkins.
It remains to be seen who their opponent will be for the Round of 32, which will be played at the LA Stadium. The Canadians could face Korea or Czechia.
Being the lone game on Sunday, the city says Fan Fest will open from 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. for fans to watch and cheer for Canada. Information about tickets will be shared on Thursday.
Canada head coach Jesse Marsch told the TSN broadcast after the match that he admired the fight his team showed in battling back after going down 2-0.
“I know our team has heart,” he said. “That is something to be so proud of.”
The American coach said he regretted that Canada was unable to win the top spot in the group and play its upcoming knockout match in Vancouver.
Marsch also said he considered putting Alphonso Davies into the match in the second half but ultimately opted not to do so, knowing that a Round of 32 match is to come. He said he didn’t want to put Davies “in danger.”
“We thought about Alphonso, but we were trying to just manage him,” Marsch said. “He should be ready for the next match.”
The Canadians came into today’s match knowing a win or a draw would give them first place in Group B and a path to up to two knockout games in Vancouver.
Unfortunately for the sold-out B.C. Place crowd, Canada was unable to achieve either result. Goals from Rubén Vargas and Johan Manzambi gave Switzerland a 2-0 lead.
Canada cut the score to 2-1 with a goal from second-half substitute Promise David, but despite a flurry of chances, the home team was unable to find an equalizer.
1:18 p.m. P.T.: Swiss supporters in Toronto celebrate lead
Amongst a dejected pro-Canada crowd at the Toronto Fan Fest is a small group of Swiss supporters jumping for joy and waving their flag as their team takes a 2-0 lead.
A little more than 10 minutes after the first goal, it’s now 2-0 to Switzerland. Embolo laid off a pass to Johan Manzambi, whose low shot managed to squeeze under Crepeau and into the net.
Canada looks headed for second place in the group.
It took less than a minute for Switzerland to take the lead.
Rubén Vargas was left unmarked in the Canadian penalty area and slammed his shot past Maxime Crepeau to put the Swiss in control of Group B.
If the game ends with this score, Switzerland will win the group with seven points and play its Round of 32 match in Vancouver on July 2.
As long as Bosnia and Herzegovina doesn’t score a boatload more goals against Qatar, Canada would finish second and travel to Los Angeles for a Round of 32 match on June 28.
The countdown to the second-half kickoff is complete and the match is underway again. If it can keep Switzerland from scoring, Canada is 45 minutes or so from winning the group.
Switzerland had 70 per cent of the possession in the first half, but Canada outshot the Swiss five to four, with three shots on goal compared to Switzerland’s two.
Still, no Canadian chance has come as close to hitting the back of the net as Switzerland’s Breel Embolo’s did in the 11th minute, when Canada’s goalkeeper came up with a huge save.
It’s halftime at B.C. Place. Switzerland had the better chances, but Canada improved as the first half went on, putting more pressure on the Swiss defence as halftime approached.
Ali Ahmed had a good chance for Canada in the 41st minute, but he slightly mishit his low shot and Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made the save.
Down the I-5 in Seattle, Bosnia and Herzegovina leads Qatar 2-1 at halftime. If those results hold through the second halves of the two matches, Canada will win the group.
The amphitheatre at the PNE is packed with Team Canada supporters taking in the match.
CTV News Vancouver’s Penny Daflos is at Hastings Park to catch the reactions of the crowd.
Fifteen-year-old Matthew Ring from Vancouver is in the front row at the city’s FIFA Fan Festival for the second Canada match in a row. He says he got up at 6:30 a.m. and queued for hours to get his prime position because he loves Canada so much.
From my spot at pitchside, the crowd inside B.C. Place has come out of the gate red hot - louder than in the early moments versus Qatar last week. It feels like there is increased intensity and anxiety with a knockout-stage berth at the top of Group B so close.
The biggest reaction in the building so far, happened after Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau had an early outstanding stop and for a near miss by Cyle Larin before it was ruled offside.
The boo birds are certainly out in Vancouver for any Swiss touch of the ball.
The other match in Group B is happening simultaneously in Seattle, where Bosnia and Herzegovina has taken a 2-0 lead over Qatar.
If both matches ended with their current scorelines, Canada would win the group with five points, Switzerland would be second, also with five, and Bosnia would place third with four points.
The match is underway and roughly 200 people have packed this downtown Halifax bar, inside and out, watching Canada battle Switzerland.
This location has been a FIFA hub since the tournament began. Canada soccer fans have gathered here for all matches, loudly supporting their team from the other side of the country.
The general manager told CTV News that based on reservations and bookings, they will be sold out.
As the workday ends, this place continues to fill up with excited soccer fans.
Fans pack Halifax bar to watch Canada take on Switzerland Hundreds of fans packed into a downtown Halifax bar to watch Canada take on Switzerland in the final group stage match at the FIFA World Cup.
The pride of Brampton, Ont., is well represented on the Canadian men’s World Cup team.
At Brampton Garden Square, fans in attendance are well aware that their city — northwest of Toronto — is well represented on the Canadian Men’s World Cup team.
Today they’re known as “the Brampton six.” Midfielders Jonathan Osorio, Tajon Buchanan, Liam Millar and Jayden Nelson, as well as forwards Cyle Larin and Promise David, are all from the large suburb. These six players make Brampton the No. 1 producer of men’s national soccer team players, outstripping larger urban centres like Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver.
Ontario fans celebrate ‘the Brampton Six’
Retired Brampton high school gym teacher Ed McMahon says each of the players benefited from a push towards soccer at multiple schools in Brampton. “They were pulled away from the traditional high school football programs and were steered towards soccer,” says McMahon.
The players also came up through the Brampton Soccer Cup program from a young age.
Brampton Soccer Club Executive Director Paula Phillips says each of the players had amazing families who supported them alongside their minor league soccer clubs. “As they say, it takes a village,” says Philips.
12:18 p.m. PT: Packed Toronto Fan Fest watching match
It’s a sea of Canadian jerseys at the FIFA Fan Festival in Toronto as the match is now underway. All eyes are on the big screen showing the Group B contest.
The first 15 minutes have been eventful, but scoreless. Switzerland has dominated possession, but both sides have had some good stretches.
Canada’s goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau made a great save against Swiss forward Breel Embolo in the 11th minute, while Cyle Larin was called offside after a one-on-one with the Swiss’ keeper in the 13th.
Canada had an early opportunity with a free kick in the fourth minute, but the Swiss defence held firm.
Switzerland also put Canada’s defence under pressure, winning a corner in the early going and getting the ball in some dangerous areas, but neither side could make a breakthrough.
Brazilian referee Ramon Abatti has the whistle for Canada’s Group B finale against Switzerland at BC Place.
Abatti was the referee for the 2024 Olympic men’s gold-medal game and worked the Club World Cup last year.
He is joined by fellow Brazilians Danilo Manis and Rafael Alves on the lines, with Peru’s Kevin Ortega serving as fourth official and Juan Soto of Venezuela handling VAR duties.
The teams have taken the pitch and the national anthems are getting under way, first with Switzerland’s “Schweizerpsalm” (“Swiss Psalm” in English), which has lyrics in each of the country’s four official languages (German, French, Italian and Romansch).
The Swiss anthem will be followed by “O Canada.”
Against Qatar last week, the Canadian anthem boomed through B.C. Place as the sea of red-clad fans sang along.
11:44 a.m. PT: Canada House in Toronto ready for match
Fans have started flooding into Canada Soccer House at the Harbourfront Centre to get a good spot to watch Canada take on Switzerland.
The fans are all decked out in their red and white gear and say they are cautiously optimistic about the match! With screens set up all over, there isn’t a bad seat in the house.
Injured Canadian midfielder Ismaël Koné will be with the team today as they take on Switzerland.
A huge cheer went up from the crowd inside B.C. Place as he was pushed out onto the pitch in a wheelchair.
Must See: Kone enters BC Place Vancouver to an ovation from Canadian fans As the Canadian men's national team took to the pitch for warm-ups, Ismael Kone was wheeled in and was given an ovation from the crowd on hand.
Canada has hit the field for warmup and lit up the card as they walked out. Then came injured Ismael Kone, in a wheelchair, saluting the fans as they stood for him. Powerful moment.
The stage at the FIFA Fan Festival in Toronto. (Heather Wright / CTV News) The stage at the FIFA Fan Festival in Toronto is pictured on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. (Heather Wright / CTV News)
11 a.m. PT: Alessia Cara at Toronto’s FIFA Fan Festival
Alessia Cara is about to take to the stage at the FIFA Fan Festival in Toronto as the crowd continues to build ahead of the Canada vs. Switzerland match.
Fresh off their Calder Cup win, the Toronto Marlies are also scheduled to pay a visit to the party around 2:45 p.m. ET. Other performers include Soundclash Society, Dance Migration, SHOUT! the band and Snotty Nose Rez Kids.
Players are pictured taking in the atmosphere at BC Place and having some fun at midfield. (Andrew Johnson / CTV News) Players are pictured taking in the atmosphere at BC Place and having some fun at midfield on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. (Andrew Johnson / CTV News)
10:50 a.m. PT: A little over an hour to kickoff
Among those gathered before the march to the match began was CTV’s Chief News Anchor and Senior Editor Omar Sachedina.
10:45 a.m. PT: Players take in the atmosphere at BC Place
Alphonso Davies and his Canadian teammates have just left the pitch after a few minutes spent taking in the atmosphere at BC Place and having some fun at midfield. Several players pulled out their phones and enjoyed a few laughs. The team seems loose.
Injured Ismael Kone, who broke his leg in the match against Qatar, left the dressing room on crutches and was applauded by stadium staff.
The Swiss also briefly emerged to check out field level about 90 minutes ahead of kickoff.
Outside, fans tell us they’re nervous, excited, and well aware they may be about to witness one of the biggest sporting moments in Canadian history.
Canada fans Canada fans get ready to march to B.C. Place for the team's match against Switzerland on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. (Rob Buffam / CTV News)
10:30 a.m. PT: Vancouver’s 4th match
This is the fourth match Vancouver has hosted so far, with three more to come.
B.C. Place has one more group stage game to host, between Belgium and New Zealand on Friday, before hosting a Round of 32 match on July 2 and a Round of 16 match on July 7.
CTV News Vancouver’s photo gallery has captured some of the scenes from the city’s hosting duties so far.
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Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer A Canada fan smiles before the World Cup Group B soccer match between Switzerland and Canada in Vancouver, British Columbia, Wednesday, June 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Switzerland fans march toward B.C. Place before a World Cup Group B soccer match against Canada, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer A Switzerland supporter yells into a microphone as he leads a group of fans as they march toward B.C. Place before a World Cup Group B soccer match against Canada, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Switzerland fans march toward B.C. Place before a World Cup Group B soccer match against Canada, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Switzerland fans march toward B.C. Place before a World Cup Group B soccer match against Canada, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Switzerland fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Switzerland fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer A Switzerland fan marches toward B.C. Place with a large cowbell before a World Cup Group B soccer match against Canada, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Switzerland fans march toward B.C. Place before a World Cup Group B soccer match against Canada, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada Switzerland WCup Soccer Switzerland fans march toward B.C. Place before a World Cup Group B soccer match against Canada, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada vs. Switzerland fan march Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Canada vs. Switzerland fan march Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Canada vs. Switzerland fan march Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Canada vs. Switzerland fan march Canada fans march to B.C. Place stadium before Canada and Switzerland play a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Canada fans Canada fans get ready to march to B.C. Place for the team's match against Switzerland on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. (Rob Buffam / CTV News)
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place A fan is ready to watch Egypt take on New Zealand during World Cup group G soccer action, in Vancouver, Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place An Egypt fan watches Egypt take on New Zealand during first half World Cup group G soccer action, in Vancouver, Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place A fan wears flags in her hair beefore the World Cup Group G soccer match between New Zealand and Egypt in Vancouver, British Columbia, Sunday, June 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place New Zealand fans cheer before the start of the World Cup Group G soccer match between New Zealand and Egypt in Vancouver, British Columbia, Sunday, June 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Kaleb Tatum)
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place Egyptian fans cheer before the start of the World Cup Group G soccer match between New Zealand and Egypt in Vancouver, British Columbia, Sunday, June 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Sydney Shankman)
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place Fans celebrate a 3-1 win for Egypt after the World Cup Group G soccer match between New Zealand and Egypt in Vancouver, British Columbia, Sunday, June 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Sydney Shankman)
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place Egypt team members celebrate with fans after winning the World Cup Group G soccer match between New Zealand and Egypt in Vancouver, British Columbia, Sunday, June 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place Egypt fans stand before the World Cup Group G soccer match between New Zealand and Egypt in Vancouver, British Columbia, Sunday, June 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place Fans cheer during the second half of a World Cup Group G soccer match between New Zealand and Egypt, in Vancouver, on Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place New Zealand soccer fans march to BC Place prior to a World Cup Group G soccer match against Egypt, in Vancouver, on Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place New Zealand soccer fans march to BC Place prior to a World Cup Group G soccer match against Egypt, in Vancouver, on Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place New Zealand soccer fans march to BC Place prior to a World Cup Group G soccer match against Egypt, in Vancouver, on Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place Egypt fans show their support for their team before Egypt takes on New Zealand during World Cup group G soccer action, in Vancouver, Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place A New Zealand fan cheers from the stands prior to first half World Cup Group G soccer action against Egypt, in Vancouver, Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place An Egypt fan waves a flag showing star player Mohamed Salah (10) prior to first half World Cup Group G soccer action against New Zealand, in Vancouver, Sunday, June 21, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Egypt vs. New Zealand at B.C. Place
Canada vs. Qatar postgame Soccer fans leave BC Place as Canadian fans celebrate a win over Qatar during the FIFA World Cup in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Canada vs. Qatar postgame Soccer fans leave BC Place as Canadian fans celebrate a win over Qatar during the FIFA World Cup in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Canada vs. Qatar postgame Soccer fans leave BC Place as Canadian fans celebrate a win over Qatar during the FIFA World Cup in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Canada vs. Qatar postgame Soccer fans leave BC Place as Canadian fans celebrate a win over Qatar during the FIFA World Cup in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Canada vs. Qatar postgame Soccer fans leave BC Place as Canadian fans celebrate a win over Qatar during the FIFA World Cup in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Canada vs. Qatar postgame Soccer fans celebrate on Granville St. while Canada plays Qatar in FIFA World Cup group B soccer action, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Canada vs. Qatar postgame Soccer fans celebrate on Granville St. while Canada plays Qatar in FIFA World Cup group B soccer action, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Canada vs. Qatar postgame A man takes a selfie as soccer fans celebrate while Canada plays Qatar in FIFA World Cup group B soccer action, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Nathan Saliba #25 of Canada shows the shirt of Ismael Kone #8 as the celebration after scoring the team's fourth goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B match between Canada and Qatar at BC Place Vancouver on June 18, 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Ismael Kone #8 of Canada waves to crowd as he is stretched off after being fouled by Assim Madibo #23 of Qatar during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B match between Canada and Qatar at BC Place Vancouver on June 18, 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Canada and Qatar’s flags are spread across the field for the playing of the nationals anthems before a World Cup Group B soccer match, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada's Jonathan David, left, celebrates with Stephen Eustaquio after scoring his side's third goal during the World Cup Group B soccer match against Qatar in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, June 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Canada's Jonathan David, right, celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group B soccer match between against Qatar in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, June 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Prime Minister Mark Carney, centre, and his wife Diana Fox Carney speak with fans, alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, second left, and FIFA vice president Victor Montagliani, right, prior to the first half of a World Cup Group B soccer match between Canada and Qatar, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
VANCOUVER, CANADA - JUNE 18: Cyle Larin of Canada celebrates 1-0 with Luc de Fougerolles of Canada during the World Cup match between Canada v Qatar at the Vancouver Stadium on June 18, 2026 in Vancouver Canada (Photo by Dale MacMillan/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Canada celebrates after scoring their opening goal during the World Cup Group B soccer match against Qatar in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, June 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Members of the RCMP march ahead of Canada’s Voyageurs as they parade toward B.C. Place ahead of Canada’s World Cup Group B soccer match against Qatar, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada’s Voyageurs parade toward B.C. Place ahead of Canada’s World Cup Group B soccer match against Qatar, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada’s Voyageurs parade toward B.C. Place ahead of Canada’s World Cup Group B soccer match against Qatar, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada’s Voyageurs parade toward B.C. Place ahead of Canada’s World Cup Group B soccer match against Qatar, in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey
Canada soccer fans march prior to a World Cup Group B soccer match, against Qatar in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
A young fan of Canada watches as teams arrive prior to the World Cup Group B soccer match between Canada and Qatar in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, June 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Eby soccer rally B.C. Premier David Eby speaks during a rally, in Vancouver, on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Eby soccer rally Children play soccer before a Canada FIFA World Cup rally, in Vancouver, on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Eby soccer rally B.C. Premier David Eby speaks during a FIFA World Cup rally, in Vancouver, on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Eby soccer rally B.C. Premier David Eby high fives a soccer fan during a rally, in Vancouver, on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march Qatari fans march during a FIFA World Cup rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march A Qatar fan marches through smoke during a FIFA World Cup rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march Qatari fans march during a FIFA World Cup rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march Qatari fans march during a FIFA World Cup rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march Qatari fans march during a rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march Qatari fans chant before marching during a FIFA World Cup rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march Qatari fans march during a FIFA World Cup rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march Qatari fans march during a FIFA World Cup rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Qatari fans march A Qatar fan carries a dog dressed in sunglasses during a FIFA World Cup rally in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Green and Gold Army Australia fan group the Green and Gold Army held a pre-match party at the Sports Bar at Rogers Arena ahead of their country's match with Turkiye on Saturday, June 13, 2026. (CTV News)
Green and Gold Army Australia fan group the Green and Gold Army held a pre-match party at the Sports Bar at Rogers Arena ahead of their country's match with Turkiye on Saturday, June 13, 2026. (CTV News)
Granville Island watch party Fans take in Switzerland versus Qatar at the Granville Island Watch Party in Vancouver on Saturday, June 13, 2026. (CTV News)
Granville Island watch party Fans take in Switzerland versus Qatar at the Granville Island Watch Party in Vancouver on Saturday, June 13, 2026. (CTV News)
Granville Island watch party Fans take in Switzerland versus Qatar at the Granville Island Watch Party in Vancouver on Saturday, June 13, 2026. (CTV News)
Granville Island watch party Fans take in Switzerland versus Qatar at the Granville Island Watch Party in Vancouver on Saturday, June 13, 2026. (CTV News)
Go Canada YVR message Workers at Vancouver International Airport have carved a giant, bilingual message for the team into the grass of Sea Island adjacent to the airport's runways. (X.com / @yvrairport)
Vancouver celebrates FIFA World Cup Turkish fans cheer as the team arrives at their hotel in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, June 11, 2026, ahead of the World Cup soccer match between Turkey and Australia. (AP Photo/Emma Peterson)
Vancouver celebrates FIFA World Cup World Cup fans wait for the start of Canada's match with Bosnia-Herzegovina, in the PNE Amphitheatre at the FIFA Fan Festival in Vancouver, on Friday, June 12, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Brieanna Charlebois
Chase Speed, centre, celebrates at watch party, Friday, June 12, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia, after Canada scored a goal in the World Cup Group B soccer match between Canada and Bosnia. (AP Photo/Kaleb Tatum) Chase Speed, centre, celebrates at watch party, Friday, June 12, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia, after Canada scored a goal in the World Cup Group B soccer match between Canada and Bosnia. (AP Photo/Kaleb Tatum)
Vancouver celebrates FIFA World Cup Turkish fans cheer as the team arrives at their hotel in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, June 11, 2026, ahead of the World Cup soccer match between Turkey and Australia. (AP Photo/Kaleb Tatum)
Vancouver celebrates FIFA World Cup World Cup fans watch Canada's match with Bosnia-Herzegovina, in the PNE Amphitheatre at the FIFA Fan Festival in Vancouver, on Friday, June 12, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Brieanna Charlebois
Vancouver celebrates FIFA World Cup A worker cuts the grass that has been installed in B.C. Place stadium for the FIFA World Cup, in Vancouver, on Monday, June 8, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Vancouver celebrates FIFA World Cup One of the team dressing rooms is seen at B.C. Place stadium during a tour ahead of the FIFA World Cup, in Vancouver, on Monday, June 8, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Australian FIFA World Cup fans Lachlan, left, and Bailey Carter, from Those Carter Boys, pose for a photo in Vancouver, B.C., on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns Australian FIFA World Cup fans Lachlan, left, and Bailey Carter, from Those Carter Boys, pose for a photo in Vancouver, B.C., on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Vancouver celebrates the FIFA World Cup From the crowded streets of downtown Vancouver to the FIFA Fan Festival on the city's east side, soccer fans are soaking in the excitement of the 2026 World Cup.
Vancouver celebrates the FIFA World Cup From the crowded streets of downtown Vancouver to the FIFA Fan Festival on the city's east side, soccer fans are soaking in the excitement of the 2026 World Cup.
Vancouver celebrates the FIFA World Cup From the crowded streets of downtown Vancouver to the FIFA Fan Festival on the city's east side, soccer fans are soaking in the excitement of the 2026 World Cup.
Vancouver celebrates the FIFA World Cup From the crowded streets of downtown Vancouver to the FIFA Fan Festival on the city's east side, soccer fans are soaking in the excitement of the 2026 World Cup.
Vancouver celebrates the FIFA World Cup From the crowded streets of downtown Vancouver to the FIFA Fan Festival on the city's east side, soccer fans are soaking in the excitement of the 2026 World Cup.
Vancouver celebrates the FIFA World Cup From the crowded streets of downtown Vancouver to the FIFA Fan Festival on the city's east side, soccer fans are soaking in the excitement of the 2026 World Cup.
Vancouver celebrates the FIFA World Cup From the crowded streets of downtown Vancouver to the FIFA Fan Festival on the city's east side, soccer fans are soaking in the excitement of the 2026 World Cup.
Vancouver celebrates the FIFA World Cup From the crowded streets of downtown Vancouver to the FIFA Fan Festival on the city's east side, soccer fans are soaking in the excitement of the 2026 World Cup.
World Cup fans wait for the start of Canada's match with Bosnia-Herzegovina, in the PNE Amphitheatre at the FIFA Fan Festival in Vancouver, on Friday, June 12, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Brieanna Charlebois World Cup fans wait for the start of Canada's match with Bosnia-Herzegovina, in the PNE Amphitheatre at the FIFA Fan Festival in Vancouver, on Friday, June 12, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Brieanna Charlebois
Science World, which has been transformed into a FIFA World Cup Trionda soccer ball, is seen near B.C. Place stadium, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck Science World, which has been transformed into a FIFA World Cup Trionda soccer ball, is seen near B.C. Place stadium, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
The FIFA logo is seen on a World Cup countdown timer outside B.C. Place stadium, in Vancouver, on Monday, May 4, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck The FIFA logo is seen on a World Cup countdown timer outside B.C. Place stadium, in Vancouver, on Monday, May 4, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
The interior of B.C. Place stadium is seen with the retractable roof closed ahead of the FIFA World Cup, in Vancouver, on Monday, June 8, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck The interior of B.C. Place stadium is seen with the retractable roof closed ahead of the FIFA World Cup, in Vancouver, on Monday, June 8, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
A Trionda match ball and a Canada soccer jersey are displayed in a locker in one of the team dressing rooms at B.C. Place stadium during a tour ahead of the FIFA World Cup, in Vancouver, on Monday, June 8, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck A Trionda match ball and a Canada soccer jersey are displayed in a locker in one of the team dressing rooms at B.C. Place stadium during a tour ahead of the FIFA World Cup, in Vancouver, on Monday, June 8, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Science World is pictured wrapped as a soccer ball for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Vancouver, on Sunday, May 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns Science World is pictured wrapped as a soccer ball for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Vancouver, on Sunday, May 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
Swiss fans have gathered in Olympic Village for their march to the match, and CTV News Vancouver’s Kraig Krause is among the crowd.
He recorded video of fans dressed as cows and swinging large, red cowbells, as well as one fan carrying a sign reading “fondue is better than poutine.”
Today’s match will be played amidst unseasonably high temperatures in Vancouver and across the province, where fans gathering at outdoor viewing parties are advised to seek shade and stay hydrated.
Heat records fell across British Columbia on Tuesday, with many communities marking their warmest June 23 in decades.
That heat is expected to linger through Wednesday before cooler temperatures and rain move in across much of the region.
This week also marks the fifth anniversary of the deadly 2021 heat dome, which contributed to more than 600 deaths, according to a provincial coroner’s report, as temperatures soared above 40 C for several days.
It’s an early start for the Voyageurs. Canada’s national team supporters group is assembling at Quebec and Switchmen streets southeast of False Creek this morning, with the march to the match scheduled to set off around 9:45 a.m., just over two hours before the noon kickoff at B.C. Place.
Swiss fans, meanwhile, are assembling just a few blocks away at Olympic Village Square. The nation’s consulate general is telling them to have their red shirts ready, flags packed and “cowbells polished.”
Vancouver police say five of their horses will be leading the Canadian fan march. Police say the horses — Larry, Kingston, Angus, Bud, and Nelson — are a mix of Clydesdale, Percheron draft, quarter horse cross, and thoroughbred cross horses. They’re telling fans to give the horses, which each weigh 1,600 to 1,800 pounds, plenty of space and not to pat them.
In the Ali household, it’s been all World Cup, all the time. The Surrey, B.C., couple is often glued to the TV during FIFA’s marquee tournament.
But as good as the matches are on TV, Mohammed Ali and his wife Afreen Kothiwala decided to buy tickets and take in the real thing. The pricey purchase was a treat to celebrate their wedding anniversary.
They found a pair on StubHub for Sunday’s match between New Zealand and Egypt at BC Place for $1,106, or $450 each before fees.
But as kickoff approached, the tickets were not transferred into the official FIFA ticket app as promised.
The couple shared their story—and its surprise happy ending—with CTV News Vancouver on Tuesday.
World Cup ticket resale mishap ruins couple’s anniversary plans A couple who planned to celebrate by taking in a match at BC Place found out at the last minute they didn’t actually have tickets.
Head coach Jesse Marsch says he expects to bring captain Alphonso Davies on at some point during the nation’s FIFA World Cup game against Switzerland in Vancouver.
Marsch says Davies will not start but he has been training with the team, is ready to play and would bring a big mental boost to Canada’s final game of the group stage.
The 25-year-old star left back injured his left hamstring in early May while playing for Bayern Munich in a Champions League semifinal and has not played since.
During the national anthem at BC Place, fans will honour injured midfielder Ismaël Koné, who broke his leg during Canada’s match with Qatar.
The Voyageurs fan club says it has printed 3,000 No. 8 signs to hold up during O Canada.
They are asking for volunteers to pick up the signs at Fionn MacCool’s Pub to hand out to people marching to BC Place and in the stadium. There will also be a banner to sign at the pub before the march sets up at 9:30 a.m. and begins at 10 a.m.
Fans are also encouraged to make their own No. 8 signs.
Canada's Ismael Kone Canada's Ismael Kone, centre, is carried off of the field after receiving medical attention during the World Cup Group B soccer match against Qatar in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, June 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
7 a.m. PT: What’s at stake today
Team Canada controls its own destiny heading into today’s match. A win or a draw will see the Canadians top the group and advance to the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time ever.
Canada is likely to advance even if it loses, with its four points in the standings and plus-six goal differential extremely likely to be enough for second place in Group B or one of the top eight third-place finishes across the tournament’s 12 groups.
Topping the group is preferable, however, not just because it likely means a weaker opponent in the Round of 32, but also because the winner of Group B will play its Round of 32 match in Vancouver on July 2.
Canada vs. Switzerland is not the only match kicking off at noon today. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Qatar will also begin their final group stage match in Seattle at that time.
The World Cup’s final group stage matches are played simultaneously to minimize the chance that two squads will settle for a mutually agreeable result, which famously happened during a 1982 game between West Germany and Austria that has come to be known as the Disgrace of Gijon.
Canada soccer fans march prior to a World Cup Group B soccer match, against Qatar in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns Canada soccer fans march prior to a World Cup Group B soccer match, against Qatar in Vancouver, on Thursday, June 18, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
