Fans of Algeria and Switzerland hope for a win in the round-of-32 match in Vancouver

Switzerland fans march toward B.C. Place before a World Cup Group B soccer match against Canada, in Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Timothy Matwey

By The Canadian Press

Jul 2, 2026 | 1:00 AM

VANCOUVER — Algeria native Nawel Allam says it’s “a dream come true” to see her home country play a World Cup match in British Columbia, where she has lived for 35 years.

Vancouver is set to host its first knock-out World Cup game today when Algeria takes on Switzerland at BC Place, with kickoff to happen at 8 p.m.

Fans of both teams are hoping for a win in the round-of-32 match, which is the only way to keep their World Cup dreams alive and remain in the tournament.

The Swiss have already played in Vancouver, when they defeated the Canadian team 2-1 in the group stage on June 24, but it will be the first tournament match the North African team plays in Canada.