Canada begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on home soil when they face Bosnia and Herzegovina in a Group B clash at BMO Field on Friday.
With co-hosts Mexico already opening their tournament with a victory over South Africa, attention now turns to Jesse Marsch’s Canada side as they seek a first-ever World Cup win.
Canada have lost all six matches from their previous appearances at the World Cup in 1986 and 2002, but expectations are significantly higher this time around as they play in front of home supporters.
Bosnia and Herzegovina secured their place at the tournament through the UEFA playoffs, defeating Italy on penalties to book a spot in Group B alongside Canada, Switzerland and Qatar.
Canada team news
Canada could be without star defender Alphonso Davies from the start as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.
The Bayern Munich full-back has battled fitness issues since returning from a serious knee injury and remains a doubt for the opening match.
Head coach Jesse Marsch offered an encouraging update before the game.
Medical scans showed positive progress in Davies’ recovery, but Canada are unlikely to take unnecessary risks with one of their most important players.
Winger Liam Millar is expected to start after helping Hull City secure promotion through the Championship playoffs.
Defender Alfie Jones remains a fitness concern, while Moise Bombito has returned to contention after recovering from a broken leg.
Canada predicted lineup
Canada (4-4-2):
Maxime Crepeau; Alistair Johnston, Luc de Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea; Tajon Buchanan, Stephen Eustaquio, Ismael Kone, Liam Millar; Jonathan David, Cyle Larin.
Bosnia and Herzegovina team news
Bosnia face concerns over veteran striker Edin Dzeko, who is nursing a minor injury and may not be risked from the start.
The 40-year-old remains the team’s most experienced player and all-time leading scorer, but Bosnia could be forced to rely on other attacking options.
Forward Haris Tabakovic is also struggling with an ankle problem, creating further uncertainty in attack.
At the back, experienced defender Sead Kolasinac is expected to return despite recent fitness concerns and should feature in the three-man defence.
Bosnia and Herzegovina predicted lineup
Bosnia and Herzegovina (3-5-1-1):
Nikola Vasilj; Tarik Muharemovic, Nikola Katic, Sead Kolasinac; Amar Dedic, Ivan Sunjic, Amir Hadziahmetovic, Ivan Basic, Esmir Bajraktarevic; Kerim Alajbegovic; Ermedin Demirovic.
Canada vs Bosnia prediction
Canada enter the match as favourites thanks to home advantage and a squad featuring proven international performers such as Jonathan David and Cyle Larin.
Bosnia possess quality and experience, particularly if Dzeko is available, but Canada’s pace and attacking threat could prove decisive in Toronto.
Prediction: Canada 2-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina
A winning start would not only end Canada’s long wait for a World Cup victory but also provide a major boost in their bid to reach the knockout stages for the first time in history.
