Canada have experienced a dream start to the 2026 World Cup.
The Canada national team earned their first World Cup point against Bosnia & Herzegovina in the first match of the group stage, and won their first World Cup match in the second game against Qatar.
Canada dominated Qatar, winning 6-0 in Vancouver last week. Veteran forward Cyle Larin opened the scoring followed by a Jonathan David hat trick.
Unfortunately, star midfielder Ismaël Koné was stretchered off early in the second half with a broken leg. As Canada's premier midfielder, his absence will be felt for the remainder of the tournament.
On a positive note, Jesse Marsch expects Alphonso Davies to be fit for the first time this tournament for the final group stage match against Switzerland. While Davies provides a significant boost on the left wing, Richie Laryea has performed excellently in his absence. Marsch faces a selection dilemma regarding Davies's involvement should he be fit to start.
Canada continue their World Cup campaign in Vancouver on Wednesday against a formidable Swiss opposition.
Switzerland tied Qatar in their opening match of the tournament, but thrashed Bosnia & Herzegovina 4-1 in their second game.
Switzerland only scored once before Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic was sent off in the 80th minute. 20-year-old Johan Manzambi scored twice off the bench, with Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka also finding the net.
Switzerland and Canada are level at the top of Group B with four points, and both teams are well-positioned to advance to the knockout stages.
Spotlight Sports Group has predicted a draw between Canada and Switzerland with Jonathan David to score. Read Spotlight's Canada vs. Switzerland Picks and Predictions here.
Canada vs. Switzerland Start Time, Date & location
Canada will face Switzerland at BC Place Vancouver on Wednesday, June 24.
Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 PM ET (2:00 PM CT / 1:00 PM MT / 12:00 PM PT).
Canada's Starting Eleven Prediction
Manager: Jesse Marsch
Formation: 4-4-2
ST | ST | ||||
LM | RM | ||||
CM | CM | ||||
LB | RB | ||||
CB | CB | ||||
GK | |||||
With Koné sidelined for the remainder of the tournament, Jesse Marsch must identify a replacement in central midfield. Nathan Saliba, who came off the bench to replace Koné against Qatar, is the likely candidate to start.
Saliba scored and provided an assist after his introduction against Qatar, proving he is a capable replacement for the injured star.
Moise Bombito made his first appearance against Qatar since breaking his leg last October. The 26-year-old replaced Derek Cornelius at half-time and could partner him in defence against Switzerland.
While Alphonso Davies is fit, the Canadian medical staff will likely exercise caution, potentially easing him back into action from the bench. Ali Ahmed is expected to start on the left wing, though Davies could be introduced in a more advanced role to allow Richie Laryea to remain on the pitch.
Switzerland's Starting Eleven Prediction
Manager: Murat Yakin
Formation: 4-3-1-2
ST | ST | ||||
CAM | |||||
LCM | CM | RCM | |||
LB | RB | ||||
CM | CB | ||||
GK | |||||
Discover more from bet365
Read the latest World Cup news on site.
2026 World Cup Storm & Lightning Protocol.
FIFA's Rule Changes for the 2026 World Cup.
