Canada began their World Cup 2026 campaign with a draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, thanks to a late equaliser from substitute Cyle Larin. The match, held at Toronto Stadium in Ontario, saw Canada come from behind after Jovo Lukic had given Bosnia and Herzegovina a first-half lead. The result marks an improvement for Canada compared to their previous World Cup outing, where they did not secure any points.
The atmosphere in Toronto was vibrant, with pre-match entertainment featuring musical performances and a flypast. The stadium, which had 7,000 temporary seats added, hosted a significant number of Bosnia and Herzegovina supporters in the south stand.
First half action and Bosnian lead
Canada started with early intensity, with Liam Millar’s long throw creating an early opportunity. However, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Amar Memic had the first clear chance, firing over the bar. Jonathan David, a key player for Canada, missed a notable opportunity in the 17th minute, prompting a visible reaction from coach Jesse Marsch.
Bosnia and Herzegovina capitalised on a set-piece routine to open the scoring. Following a challenge by Richie Laryea, a corner was awarded. Sead Kolasinac flicked the ball towards goal, and Jovo Lukic headed it in from close range, scoring his first international goal. This goal sparked celebrations among the Bosnian fans.
Despite dominating possession and having more shots, Canada could not find an equaliser before the interval. Tani Oluwaseyi, preferred over Larin in the starting lineup, missed a clear chance just after the 30-minute mark. Canada’s captain, Stephen Eustáquio, had previously emphasised the importance of managing emotions in such a significant match.
Canada’s second half push and equaliser
Canada continued to press in the second half, creating several promising attacks that ultimately did not result in goals. Richie Laryea had a shot on target that was remarkably cleared off the crossbar by Sead Kolasinac. Bosnia and Herzegovina faced sustained pressure, with their players encouraged by Edin Dzeko from the sidelines.
Further opportunities arose for Canada, including a header from Nikola Katic that was cleared off the line, denying Oluwaseyi. Frustration was evident for Marsch as goal-scoring chances continued to elude his team. A triple substitution on the hour mark saw Promise David, Jacob Shaffelburg, and Ali Ahmed enter the game to bolster the attack.
The decisive moment came when Cyle Larin was introduced in place of Oluwaseyi. Shortly after coming on, Larin received a flick from Jonathan David, swivelled inside the box, and volleyed the ball past goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, levelling the score. This equaliser came just 121 seconds after Larin’s entrance into the match.
Group B outlook
The draw means both Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina earn a point in their opening Group B fixture. Switzerland, also in Group B, are considered strong contenders to advance, having reached the knockout rounds in previous World Cups. Qatar is the fourth team in the group.
Canada, as co-hosts alongside Mexico and the United States, are aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time in their history. Their next fixture is scheduled for 18 June against Qatar at BC Place Vancouver.
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Source: theguardian.com
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