Switzerland and Canada meet in a decisive Group B clash on Wednesday evening with a place in the World Cup knockout stages on the line.
The Swiss have put themselves in a commanding position after collecting four points from their opening two matches. Following a 1-1 draw with Qatar, Murat Yakin’s side produced an impressive 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina to move to the top of the group.
Canada, meanwhile, responded to their opening draw against Bosnia with a hard-fought 6-0 victory over nine-man Qatar. Jesse Marsch’s men are strongly in the qualification picture, but they may need a point here to guarantee an easier route in the last 16.
With both teams still having plenty to play for, this has all the ingredients of an entertaining contest.
Switzerland have been one of the most consistent international sides of the last decade, regularly progressing from major tournament groups thanks to their organisation and tactical discipline. However, Canada possess the pace and attacking quality to cause problems, particularly through Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies.
Both Teams To Score
Both sides have shown plenty going forward during the opening two rounds.
Switzerland have scored five goals in their first two matches and looked particularly dangerous against Bosnia. Dan Ndoye, Breel Embolo and Ruben Vargas have all contributed in the final third, while Granit Xhaka continues to dictate play from midfield.
Canada have also found the net in both group matches and carry a constant threat on the break. Jonathan David remains one of the most clinical forwards in international football.
With qualification at stake and both teams possessing attacking quality, backing both teams to score looks a strong option.
Jonathan David Anytime Goalscorer
David continues to be Canada’s biggest attacking weapon.
The striker was on target against Qatar and has consistently delivered for both club and country over the past few years. His intelligent movement inside the penalty area and ability to finish chances from difficult positions make him a nightmare opponent for defenders.
Switzerland are well organised defensively, but Canada will create opportunities if they can exploit space in transition.
If the Canadians are to secure a result they potentially need, David is likely to be at the heart of it.
Score Prediction: Switzerland 2-2 Canada
