Manzambi matches World Cup legends
Switzerland's 20-year-old Johan Manzambi has etched his name in World Cup history, joining German icon Thomas Mueller and French superstar Kylian Mbappe in an exclusive list. After scoring in Switzerland's 2-1 victory over Canada in Vancouver on Wednesday, Manzambi became only the third player under 21 this century to record four or more goal involvements in a single World Cup edition.
According to OptaFranz, Manzambi has now amassed three goals and one assist in the tournament. Mueller achieved eight involvements in 2010, while Mbappe had four in 2018.
Match-winning impact off the bench
In Switzerland's previous group match, a 4-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, Manzambi came off the bench to score a brace. He netted a powerful volley in the 74th minute, just two minutes after entering the pitch, and completed his double in the 90th minute, earning the Player of the Match award.
Against Canada, after a goalless first half, Switzerland struck twice early in the second period. Ruben Vargas opened the scoring in the 46th minute, finishing at the back post after a well-worked move. In the 57th minute, Manzambi capitalized on a defensive error to slot home a low finish past goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau, doubling Switzerland's lead.
Canada fight back but fall short
Canada responded in the 76th minute through substitute Promise David, who scored with a sharp volley to bring the hosts back into the contest. Canada pushed for an equalizer and created pressure in stoppage time, but Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel produced a crucial goal-line save to deny a last-gasp header, securing the win for Switzerland.
Despite the defeat, Canada advanced to the Round of 32 for the first time in their World Cup history, finishing second in the group. According to OptaJoe, Canada became the first host nation to progress from a World Cup group stage with only four points since the United States in 1994.
Switzerland top group, stay in Vancouver
Switzerland ended the group stage at the top of the standings and will remain in Vancouver for their Round of 32 fixture, building momentum after a strong defensive and attacking display.
