Canada Advances to World Cup Knockouts After 2-1 Loss to Switzerland

Canada lost 2-1 to Switzerland on Wednesday but secured a spot in the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. The result ended Canada's chance to stay in Vancouver for the round-of-32 game and sent the team to Los Angeles instead. Switzerland scored twice in the second half.

Rubén Vargas opened the scoring 40 seconds after halftime, and Johan Manzambi made it 2-0 before Canada pulled one goal back through substitute Promise David.

Canada's only group-stage win came against Qatar.

The team also drew 1-1 with Bosnia-Herzegovina, finishing with four points and second place in Group B. The loss means Canada will face the runner-up from Group A, most likely South Korea, in Los Angeles. Officials noted that South Korea is expected to have strong support in Southern California.

Canada became the first host nation since the United States in 1994 to advance from the group stage with four points. The team will play its knockout match away from home support. Midfielder Ismaël Koné appeared before the match in a wheelchair after suffering a broken leg earlier in the tournament.

Fans displayed 8,000 signs bearing his number in support. Canada's next opponent and venue will be confirmed once Group A concludes its matches.