History in unique ways: South Africa, Switzerland, Canada make it to Round of 32 in FIFA WC 2026
New Delhi, June 25
It was history in unique ways for South Africa, Switzerland and Canada as they progressed to the round of 32 of the ongoing FIFA World Cup after the latest series of matches.
South Africa, also known as Bafana Bafana in the football world, created history by advancing to the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage for the first time after a 1-0 victory over South Korea in their final group-stage match.
As per OptaJoe, South Africa, who have progressed to the round of 32 for the first time ever, are the seventh African nation to have made to the WC knockout stages. In the Group A, they ended as number two, with a win, loss and a draw each, giving them four points. Mexico is at the top with three wins in three matches and nine points.
Switzerland, who secured a 2-1 win over Canada in their final league stage match at Vancouver, made it to the round of 32 for the fourth successive time in the last four editions of 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026. The only other European side to do so is France, as per OptaJoe.
Switzerland end as the toppers of Group B, with two wins and a draw, giving them seven points.
Also, the match saw the co-hosts Canada progress to the round of 32, finishing with a win, loss and a draw each. They are the first host nation to make it past the FIFA WC group stage with as few as four points since the USA in 1994, as per OptaJoe. They are at the second position in Group B, behind Switzerland.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Switzerland's consistency is incredible - fourth time in a row in the round of 32! That's proper European football pedigree. But honestly, I'm more excited for Canada as hosts. First time since USA '94 that a host has advanced with just 4 points. Shows how competitive the tournament has become!
Yaar, I wish India could experience such moments. South Africa's win over South Korea shows that African football is rising. Seven African nations now in WC knockout stages - and we're still struggling to qualify. Need to improve our grassroots football badly. 😔
Switzerland vs Canada was a cracker of a match! Seeing Canada advance as co-hosts is special. The World Cup expanding to 48 teams has its critics, but stories like these - smaller nations getting their moment - make it worthwhile. Good for the game globally. 🇨🇦🎉
Honestly, I'm a bit skeptical about the expanded format. South Africa and Canada advancing with just 4 points each shows the quality might be diluted. But then again, every team deserves their chance. India should take notes and invest in football infrastructure! Arre yaar, kitna wait karna padega? 🏏⚽
Switzerland's achievement of making it to the round of 32 for four consecutive World Cups alongside France is remarkable. That's the level of consistency we need in Indian sports - whether it's football, cricket, or hockey. Also, great to see co-hosts Canada doing well! 🏆
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