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Switzerland and Canada lead Group B in World Cup 2026 qualifiers after decisive wins
via Le Matin2 min read
Switzerland and Canada have taken control of Group B in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers following convincing victories. In Los Angeles, Switzerland defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1. Johan Manzambi opened the scoring in the 74th minute, followed by Ruben Vargas in the 84th. Tarik Muharemovic's expulsion in the 80th minute further complicated matters for Bosnia. Manzambi scored again in the 90th minute, and although Ermin Mahmic reduced the deficit in added time, Granit Xhaka sealed the Swiss win with a penalty in the 90th+7 minute. Hours later in Vancouver, Canada delivered a dominant 6-0 performance against Qatar. Cyle Larin scored early, Jonathan David secured a hat-trick, and Nathan Saliba also found the net. An own goal by Almanai completed Canada's offensive display. Both Switzerland and Canada now lead Group B and will face each other in the third and final matchday to determine the group leader. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Qatar, each with one point, will need favorable circumstances to advance.
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Must ReadAchraf Hakimi, captain of the Atlas Lions, will face trial before the Hauts-de-Seine criminal court in France after the Versailles Court of Appeal confirmed his referral in an alleged rape case from 2023. Hakimi has consistently denied the accusations since the beginning. The decision paves the way for a trial, though it does not question his presumption of innocence. Following the announcement, Hakimi posted on social media, stating, "Justice looked me in the eyes and told me: If you weren't famous, there would never have been a case. I chose to remain silent for years. I thought that remaining dignified, being patient, and trusting justice would lead to the right decisions being made. Today, a story that is not mine is being told to the detriment of my family, my life, and above all, the truth. Sometimes I feel like I've become an easy target. I have been waiting for this trial since day one. And I am now looking forward to it. Finally, I will be able to speak." The case dates back to February 2023, when a 24-year-old woman reported meeting Hakimi on Instagram and going to his home in Boulogne-Billancourt. She alleged non-consensual acts and an alleged rape, stating she pushed him away and messaged a friend for a ride. Hakimi was charged in March 2023 and placed under judicial supervision. The Versailles Court of Appeal found "sufficient evidence" from the investigation to justify a criminal trial. The trial date is not yet known. Hakimi's lawyer, Me Fanny Colin, emphasized
The Moroccan national team will play Scotland on Friday, June 19, at 11 PM, in a decisive match for qualification to the round of sixteen in the 2026 World Cup. Following a promising draw against Brazil, the Atlas Lions must secure a victory to significantly advance their position in the competition before their final group stage match against Haiti.
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