There was no calculation to be made for the Swiss team during its final group match Thursday in Vancouver against Canada. A success was imperative to overtake their evening opponent and finish in first place in group B. And the Nati did it. She won (2-1) and secured a round of 16 against a third in the group.
For this meeting, Murat Yakin had, as often, pulled a surprise out of his hat. The coach chose to start Johan Manzambi and Ruben Vargas, the two heroes of the victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina, and especially the very inexperienced Luca Jaquez on the right side of the defense.
For a long time, this choice seemed incongruous as the Stuttgart central defender did not seem comfortable in a position that was not his. Then his opening on Johan Manzambi led to the opening score of Ruben Vargas (46th, 1-0) a few seconds after the start of the second half.
The round of 16 on July 3 at 5 a.m.
It was another opening from Luca Jaquez which led to the second Swiss success. Breel Embolo, in a pivotal role, timed perfectly before passing to Johan Manzambi (57th, 2-0). The Genevan’s shot ended up in the back of the net after a blunder by the Canadian goalkeeper.
With this advantage in hand, Murat Yakin’s men entered management mode. They left the ball to Canada a little more. It almost cost them dearly since Promise David reduced the score (76th, 2-1). And Switzerland suffered until the last second, but they held on.
The Nati will begin their round of 16 on Friday July 3, at 5 a.m. in Switzerland, against a third group who is not yet known. This meeting will take place in Vancouver.
Relive the match and this qualification here.
