Jessica Afuye
The 2026 FIFA World Cup continued yesterday and early today with another entertaining round of group-stage fixtures as teams battled for crucial points in their quest for qualification. The day produced a mixture of dominant victories, close contests and dramatic moments.
The biggest highlight came from Group B, where Canada recorded an emphatic 6-0 victory over Qatar in a match that showed their attacking strength and tournament ambition. Canada controlled possession from the beginning and constantly pressured the Qatari defence.
Cyle Larin opened the scoring for Canada, giving his side an early advantage before Jonathan David took centre stage with a brilliant hat-trick, finishing off several well-created chances. Nathan Saliba scored fot Canada and also Cyle Larin, and Qatar’s Mohammed Manai scored an own goal also got on the scoresheet, Canada completed a convincing victory that sent a strong message to other teams in the competition. Qatar also finished the match with nine players after two red cards. The players sent off were Assim Madibo and Homam El Amin. Qatar struggled to create clear opportunities and were unable to stop Canada’s attacking movement.
Also in Group B, Switzerland produced an impressive 4-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Switzerland started aggressively and their attacking quality caused problems throughout the match. Bosnia tried to respond but struggled to contain Switzerland’s pace and creativity, After a dramatic second half Johan Manzambi was the star of the match, scoring twice, while Rubén Vargas added another goal and captain Granit Xhaka converted a late penalty to complete the win. as they punished Bosnia’s defensive mistakes after a red card was given to Tarik Muharemovic. Bosnia managed a consolation goal through Ermin Mahmic, but it was not enough to stop Switzerland from taking all three points. The result gave Switzerland a major boost as they continue their push for a place in the knockout rounds.
In Group A, Mexico secured a narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea in a tightly contested encounter. Both teams battled for control, with South Korea showing determination and creating some dangerous moments. The only goal of the match was scored by Santiago Giménez, whose finish proved decisive in a closely contested game. South Korea pushed for an equaliser but Mexico’s defence held firm. However, Mexico remained organised and eventually found the winning goal to take all three points. The result strengthened Mexico’s position as they booked their place in the round of 32 after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea.
The day’s opening fixture saw Czechia and South Africa share the points after a 1-1 draw in an intense match. Czechia took the lead when Michal Sadílek scored, putting South Africa under pressure. The South Africans refused to give up and continued pushing forward, eventually getting their reward when Teboho Mokoena converted to bring the game level. Both teams searched for a late winner, but neither could find the decisive goal.
The latest results have made the group-stage race even more competitive, with Canada and Switzerland emerging as the biggest winners of the day while Mexico strengthened their qualification hopes. As the tournament continues, every goal and every point will become increasingly important in determining which nations reach the knockout stage.