Canada knew before kickoff against Switzerland in Vancouver that World Cup history was already more than likely made for the team, reaching the knockouts for the first time. On Wednesday, it was confirmed, as the co-host finished second in Group B’s final standings after losing 2–1.
Four points through the opening two games gave a near-certainty of progressing to the round of 32 in the expanded tournament format, in which only 16 teams are eliminated at this stage.
