According to the British newspaper, The Guardian, the Canadian football team’s recent rise has made them a new force in international football. In the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, Canada topped their group to qualify, highlighting their status in North America. The team’s upward trajectory continues, as they reached the semi-finals of the 2024 Copa America, becoming the only team from the region to remain in the tournament.
Canada’s success is not a coincidence, but a result of several contributing factors. First, the team boasts a number of world-class players, such as Alphonso Davies, the best player in North America, whose speed and skill leave opposing defenses in awe. The midfield features Porto’s Stephen Eustáquio and Ismaël Koné, who is about to join Marseille, while the attack is led by Jonathan David and Cyle Larin, forming a formidable attacking line.
Canada’s performance at the Copa America has been particularly impressive. Despite losing their opening group game 0-2 to Argentina, the team played well in the first half, matching their opponents in terms of shots and showing great fighting spirit. In subsequent matches, Canada defeated Peru and Chile to finish second in the group. In particular, they progressed to the quarter-finals against Venezuela via a penalty shootout, demonstrating their mental strength and fighting spirit.
Canada’s leap forward is also due to the tactical guidance of head coach John Herdman. Although Herdman only took charge in May 2024, he demonstrated his coaching ability in friendly matches before the Copa America, defeating the Netherlands and France to boost the team’s confidence. Herdman’s high-pressing tactics and 4-2-2-2 formation have allowed Canada to excel in both attack and defense, with the players understanding and executing the tactics with a high degree of unity.
Some might say that Canada has been lucky to be drawn in a relatively easy group and face a weak quarter-final opponent. However, Mexico and the USA were also drawn in groups they should have qualified from, but ultimately failed to do so.
It is worth noting that behind Canada’s success lies a financial struggle for the football federation. Their long-term agreement limits funding inflows (sponsorship contracts run until 2030 and are only worth $3 million per year), impacting the team’s preparation and operations. Even so, Canada has overcome numerous difficulties and demonstrated their resilience.
Canada’s rise has not only changed the landscape of North American football, but has also boosted confidence in preparations for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. The team’s impressive performance at the Copa America, particularly their upcoming semi-final clash with Argentina, will further test their strength and could potentially mark the start of a new era for North American football.
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