Switzerland vs Canada Predictions
Switzerland and Canada both come into their final Group B fixture unbeaten after taking four points from their first two matches.
Canada only need a draw to secure top spot, while Switzerland must win to move above the co-hosts.
With both teams strong in the forward areas, I fancy BTTS in what is likely to be an evenly balanced contest at BC Place.
BTTS Backed in Vancouver
- Switzerland have seen BTTS in 7 of their last 8 matches
- Switzerland scored 1+ goals in 17 of their last 19 matches
- Canada have seen BTTS in 3 of their last 6 matches
Switzerland and Canada Set For First Encounter
Switzerland and Canada will meet for the first time in Vancouver.
Switzerland Ease Past Bosnia
Switzerland make the trip to Vancouver after a commanding 4-1 win against Bosnia and Herzegovina last week. Johan Manzambi came off the bench to score twice, while Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka were also on target in a dominant second-half display.
The Swiss had opened their campaign with a frustrating 1-1 draw against Qatar, but last week’s victory leaves Murat Yakin’s side in a strong position to qualify from Group B.
Frequently involved in competitive and entertaining fixtures, Switzerland have seen BTTS land in all but one of their last eight internationals.
The Swiss have also been reliable in the final third, scoring at least one goal in 17 of their last 19 matches.
Canada Crush Qatar
Canada arrive at BC Place in high spirits after a superb 6-0 win against Qatar. The co-hosts had already earned a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina on matchday one before producing one of the standout performances of the group stage.
Juventus forward Jonathan David scored a sensational hat-trick in a well-deserved victory for the Red and Whites, who secured their first-ever World Cup win in style.
Reduced to nine men, Qatar had little answer to the Canadians' dominance. Jesse Marsch’s side finished with 32 efforts on goal and a final xG total of 4.6.
The co-hosts now sit top of Group B, and a draw would be enough to secure first place. Canada have never reached the knockout rounds of a World Cup finals.
Squads and Team News
Switzerland Squad
Goalkeepers: Gregor Kobel, Yvon Mvogo, Marvin Keller
Defenders: Miro Muheim, Silvan Widmer, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez, Eray Comert, Aurele Amenda, Luca Jaquez
Midfielders: Denis Zakaria, Remo Freuler, Johan Manzambi, Granit Xhaka, Ardon Jashari, Djibril Sow, Christian Fassnacht, Michel Aebischer, Fabian Rieder
Forwards: Breel Embolo, Dan Ndoye, Ruben Vargas, Noah Okafor, Zeki Amdouni, Cedric Itten
Switzerland boss Murat Yakin could name a similar side to the one that eased past Bosnia and Herzegovina. Johan Manzambi is pushing for a start after scoring twice from the bench, although Yakin may look to use him as an impact substitute.
Yakin talked up Canada’s quality ahead of Wednesday's showdown, and admitted the co-hosts will be a tough opponent in Vancouver.
“We are happy to play against the host team from Canada,” said Yakin.
“Of course, they have very good players from Europe and also from here in the States, and in Canada. I just remember my time when I played against Canada; we lost this game, so we are motivated to play against Canada.”
Canada Squad
Goalkeepers: Dayne St. Clair, Maxime Crepeau, Owen Goodman
Defenders: Alistair Johnston, Alfie Jones, Luc de Fougerolles, Joel Waterman, Derek Cornelius, Moise Bombito, Alphonso Davies, Richie Laryea, Niko Sigur
Midfielders: Mathieu Choiniere, Stephen Eustaquio, Ismael Kone, Liam Millar, Jacob Shaffelburg, Tajon Buchanan, Ali Ahmed, Jonathan Osorio, Nathan Saliba, Jayden Nelson
Forwards: Cyle Larin, Jonathan David, Tani Oluwaseyi, Promise David
Canada have been hit by a couple of injury setbacks ahead of their decisive Group B clash against Switzerland. Midfielder Ismael Kone has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament after suffering a broken leg against Qatar. Defender Alfie Jones also remains a doubt due to an ankle issue.
Captain Alphonso Davies has returned to training and could feature after recovering from a hamstring injury.