Canada target historic first points as forgotten 2026 World Cup co-hosts
Canada will attempt to secure their first ever World Cup points and emerge from the shadow of the United States when they co-host the 2026 tournament.
The North American nation are currently tied with El Salvador for the unenviable record of playing the joint-most matches at the finals without earning a single point.
However, American head coach Jesse Marsch will view a favourable Group B draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar and Switzerland as the perfect opportunity to rewrite history.
Home advantage and a favourable route
The co-hosts begin their campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto after original prospective opponents Italy shockingly failed to qualify.
Fifa scheduling guarantees the Canadians will play their pool matches exclusively across Vancouver and Toronto, offering a significant geographical advantage.
If Marsch’s side can secure top spot in Group B, they could potentially advance all the way to the quarter-finals before having to cross the southern border.
Overshadowed by noisy neighbours
Despite their hosting responsibilities, the northern nation has struggled to command the same global attention as the United States.
Much of the tournament’s international focus has centred heavily on the American political climate and Fifa’s apparent prioritisation of US-based fixtures.
The Canadian schedule notably lacks blockbuster group stage encounters, with Germany’s clash against Cote d’Ivoire serving as the highest-profile fixture on their soil.
Seeking middle power status
The upcoming tournament represents a crucial chance for the historically struggling side to establish themselves as a respectable middle power in international football.
Earning a maiden tournament victory against their Group B rivals would instantly shift the narrative surrounding their historic World Cup futility.
A strong run on home soil remains the ultimate goal for a squad desperate to prove this is their tournament just as much as their southern neighbours’.