With the 2026 FIFA World Cup starting in June, we’re kicking off the excitement leading up to the tournament by previewing each of the groups.
In the next of our Group profiles, we take a look at Group B, which features one of the host nations (Canada), alongside a strong side in Switzerland, and two relatively unknown entities in Qatar and Bosnia and Herzegovina. With home support, tournament experience and contrasting styles all in play, this group could be tighter than it first appears.
Matches will take place between 12 and 25 June 2026, with the top teams advancing to the knockout rounds.
Group B
- Canada (hosts)
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Qatar
• Switzerland
Group B Fixtures
12 June 2026
Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina
Time: 21:00 (SAST)
Venue: BMO Field, Toronto, Canada
13 June 2026
Qatar vs Switzerland
Time: 21:00 (SAST)
Venue: Levi’s Stadium, San Fransico Bay Area, California, USA
18 June 2026
Switzerland vs Bosnia and Herzegovina
Time: 21:00 (SAST)
Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, California
Canada vs Qatar
Time: 00:00 (SAST) (19 June)
Venue: BC Place, Vancouver, Canada
24 June 2026
Switzerland v Canada
Time: 21:00 (SAST)
Venue: BC Place, Vancouver, Canada
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar
Time: 21:00 (SAST)
Venue: Lumen Field, Seattle, USA
Canada
Preview
As one of the host nations, Canada will experience more pressure and expectation than it usually has to contend with in a major tournament. After returning to the World Cup in 2022 for the first time since 1986, the team continues to grow in confidence and quality. With a dynamic, fast-paced style of play and a core of talented players such as Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David competing in top leagues, Canada has the tools to trouble any opponent, especially with home support behind them.
Prediction
Canada’s home advantage could be decisive, and they have a strong chance of progressing if they can handle the pressure.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Preview
Having only previously appeared in the World Cup in 2014, Bosnia and Herzegovina returns to the global stage with a technically gifted squad and a strong footballing identity. While Bosnia and Herzegovina doesn’t have an extensive football pedigree, it currently boasts quality players such as forwards Edin Džeko and Ermedin Demirović , defender Sead Kolašinac, and right-back Amar Dedić. Known for their attacking intent and creativity, Bosnia and Herzegovina can be dangerous going forward, though defensive consistency has sometimes been an issue.
Prediction
Bosnia and Herzegovina are capable of pushing for qualification but will need to remain disciplined throughout the group stage.
Qatar
Preview
Qatar, hosts of the 2022 World Cup, continue to develop as a competitive international side. While their debut tournament proved challenging, the experience gained at the highest level will be invaluable. The team relies on technical ability, quick passing, and cohesion built over years of playing together as a unit. Qatar will look for goalscoring firepower from forwards Akram Afif and Almoez Ali.
Prediction
Qatar should competitive, but may find it difficult against more experienced European opposition.
Switzerland
Preview
Switzerland is one of Europe’s most consistent tournament performers, regularly progressing to the knockout stages of major competitions. Known for its organisation, discipline, and tactical intelligence, Switzerland is a difficult team to break down. With a balanced squad blending experience and quality, and global stars such as midfielder Granit Xhaka and veteran attacker Xherdan Shaqiri, Switzerland will look to assert control in a competitive group.
Prediction
Switzerland are favourites to top the group and should progress to the Round of 16.
Looking Ahead
Group B presents an intriguing battle between a host nation, an experienced European side, and two ambitious challengers. While Switzerland may have the edge on paper, Canada’s home advantage and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s attacking threat could make qualification a tight race. With plenty at stake and little separating the teams, every match in this group could prove decisive.