Canadian soccer star; Bayern Munich fullback and Canada captain
Co-hosts Mexico and the United States are finalising squads amid tactical adjustments, while Canada eyes a strong run in a competitive Group and Scotland look to kick off with momentum. The Guardian and Al Jazeera pieces outline strategic setups and key players ahead of the tournament.
The United States has delivered a convincing 3-2 win over Senegal in Charlotte, marking a clear step forward under Mauricio Pochettino. The tactical base remains a 3-4-2-1, with Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson showing form. Christian Pulisic ends goal drought; Pepi and Dest contribute key moments. Questions remain about the defense in Richards’ absence.
Canada’s coach Jesse Marsch has emphasised national pride and the home World Cup pressure ahead of Friday’s Group B opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina, while stating Canada and the US are embracing the moment rather than fearing it.
Canada has claimed its first World Cup finals victory with a 6-0 thrashing of Qatar, led by Jonathan David’s hat-trick. Ismael Koné suffers a serious leg injury, while Canada tops Group B with four points after two matches. Next up: Switzerland in Vancouver.
England extends its 4-2 victory after a measured lineup; Ghana brings in Benjamin Asare after injury and recalls Thomas Partey amid visa issues. Canada and Morocco lineups unfold in mid-tage fixtures for WC 2026.