Canada’s Group B finale against Switzerland is arguably a bigger game for the co-hosts than their opponents.
While the two teams – who are separated by Canada’s superior goal difference – will both want to top the group, Jesse Marsch’s side know they will continue playing their games on home soil only if they maintain their position at the summit.
Canada need a point to make that happen, so it promises to be a tense affair in Vancouver – and here’s the man who will take charge of the World Cup clash.
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Brazilian official to referee Switzerland vs Canada
Brazilian referee Ramon Abatti will officiate Switzerland vs Canada, with compatriots Danilo Manis and Rafael Alves alongside him as assistants.
At 36 years old, the South American is less experienced than some of his counterparts at the World Cup, but this will not be his first taste of the tournament.
Abatti took charge of Belgium’s 1-1 draw with Egypt in Group G last Monday, handing out four yellow cards.
If this season is anything to go by he is reluctant to produce a red card, having dismissed just three players in his 29 games in 2025/26, according to transfermarkt.
While Abatti is less well-known internationally than other referees, he has officiated in Brazil’s Serie A for several seasons.
He also took charge of the men’s gold medal match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, in which Spain beat France 5-3 after extra-time at the Parc des Princes.
Peru’s Kevin Ortega is the fourth official for Switzerland’s clash with Canada, while compatriot Michael Orue is the reserve assistant referee.
Both Switzerland and Canada benefited from red cards for their opponents in their second Group B fixture.
The co-hosts beat Qatar 6-0, with Homam El Amin and Assim Omer Madibo sent off for Julen Lopetegui’s side – the latter for a foul that left Canada midfielder Ismael Kone with a badly broken leg.
Meanwhile, Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic was dismissed late on against Switzerland, who were 1-0 up at the time and went on to win 4-1.
