Larin starts as Canada reach World Cup Round of 32

Despite suffering defeat in their final group-stage fixture, Canada secured progression to the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup for the first time in the nation's history.

After scoring in each of his previous two appearances, Cyle Larin was handed a second consecutive start for Canada's final Group B encounter. However, second-half goals from Rubén Vargas and Johan Manzambi condemned the co-hosts to their first defeat of this year's tournament.

There was little in the way of clear-cut chances for Canada before the first hydration break, with Switzerland creating the game's biggest opening in the 13th minute. Maxime Crépeau produced a crucial save, before the rebound was blocked well to keep the score level.

Canada's first real opportunity arrived 20 minutes later through Cyle Larin, who drove forward well before watching his curling effort comfortably gathered by Gregor Kobel.

In the 41st minute, Ali Ahmed latched onto a well-weighted through ball and attempted to catch Kobel out with a whipped effort towards the near post. The Swiss goalkeeper turned the shot behind for a corner, which proved to be the final action of the first half.

Switzerland made a very bright start to the second half, breaking the deadlock just 40 seconds after the restart. Rubén Vargas latched onto an inviting ball and made no mistake with the finish to put the Swiss ahead.

Murat Yakin's side showed no signs of easing off and doubled their advantage soon after. In the 57th minute, Breel Embolo drove into the penalty area before teeing up Johan Manzambi, whose first-time effort slipped through the gloves of Maxime Crépeau and into the net.

Following the second goal, Canada reacted with a triple substitution, with Cyle Larin among those withdrawn as Jesse Marsch looked to spark a reaction from his side.

With 15 minutes remaining, Promise David made an immediate impact after coming off the bench, pulling a goal back for Canada just over a minute after his introduction.

The forward met Nathan Saliba's cross with the outside of his boot, directing a first-time finish beyond the goalkeeper to score Canada's consolation.

Despite numerous late chances for the co-hosts, they were condemned to defeat. Nevertheless, Cyle Larin and his fellow countrymen go marching into the Round of 32 to make history.