South Korea to Face Canada in Round of 32 If They Finish Second in Group A

▲ Canada's Promise David scores a consolation goal

Canada, one of the co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has been confirmed as the runner-up of Group B, making them a potential opponent for South Korea in the Round of 32.

Canada, ranked 30th in the FIFA rankings, lost 2-1 to 19th-ranked Switzerland in their final Group B match held at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada.

After conceding an opening goal to Vargas in the 1st minute of the second half and a second goal to Manzambi in the 12th minute, Canada attempted a comeback with a goal by Promise David in the 31st minute of the second half, but they were unable to find an equalizer.

Switzerland, winning 2-1, finished at the top of the group with 2 wins and 1 draw. Canada, with 1 win, 1 draw, and 1 loss, advanced to the Round of 32 as the group runner-up, edging out Bosnia and Herzegovina on goal difference despite having the same number of points.

If the South Korean national team defeats or draws against South Africa today to advance to the Round of 32 as the runner-up of Group A, they will face Canada, the runner-up of Group B. The Round of 32 match is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, USA, in the early hours of Monday, June 29.

Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Qatar 3-1 to finish third in Group B, keeping their hopes alive for a Round of 32 spot depending on the results of the remaining group matches. Qatar finished the tournament at the bottom of Group B with 1 draw and 2 losses.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)

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