No goals in the first half: Switzerland-Canada 0-0

In the final 2026 FIFA World Cup Group B match that will decide top spot, Switzerland and Canada ended the first half goalless at BC Place in Vancouver. With four points each from their first two games and the last 32 all but secured, the two teams could not find the net in the first 45 minutes of a match they entered aiming to finish top of the group.

The first-half stats show Switzerland dominating the game. Murat Yakin's side dictated play with 70% possession, and led on expected goals (xG) too by 0.71 to 0.29. Switzerland are also 2-0 up on big chances; but they could not finish off that superiority. On total shots, Canada's slight 5-4 edge shows the hosts did not hold back from creating danger either.

The tempo turned physical at times. In the 32nd minute, one player from each side was booked: for unsporting behaviour, Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka and Canada's Cyle Larin met referee Ramon Abatti's cards. Towards the end of the half, in the 45+4 minute, a clear foul by Breel Embolo led to a free-kick for Canada; just before that, a Ruben Vargas corner failed to create danger.

The first half of the match, refereed by Brazil's Ramon Abatti and played at the 54,405-capacity BC Place, was a 45 minutes in which the upper hand lay with Switzerland but did not show on the scoreboard. The second half is critical for both teams, for whom the path to finishing top of the group runs through victory. Whether Switzerland can convert their superiority into a goal, and whether Canada can use home advantage to go ahead, will decide the fate of the match.

Image: Ahram Online