Canada draws opening World Cup match with Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto

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The first men's World Cup game in Canada ends in a draw. Cyle Larin had the chance to win it late in extra time, but his extra touch opened the door for a huge block by Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemović.

The tie earns Les Rouges their first ever point in a World Cup tournament. It also makes Canada the first World Cup host to draw its opening match since South Africa in 2010. 

That comeback should be a point of pride for Canada.

Bosnia-Herzegovina are a frustrating side to break down and create chances against — as Italy learned in the World Cup playoffs.

And while the first Canadian win in a men's World Cup still eludes this team, the fightback against such a stubborn team should be a huge confidence booster for the co-hosts.

Canada led 13 to 8 in shots, 310 to 170 in accurate passes, and 38 to 14 in touches in the opponent's box. They also completed 58 per cent of all ground duels — even if they were outplayed in the air.

Credit to Marsch, whose substitutions changed the game for the better for the co-hosts.

As Jan said, Qatar is up next for Canada. They will be Les Rouges' first ever Asian opposition in the World Cup. 

Canada and Qatar had the two worst records in the 2022 tournament, which Qatar hosted. Both were eliminated from the group stage without registering a point. 

Qatar won the last two Asian Cups, but they're seen as the weakest opponent in Group B.

Canada will hope for maximum points against its opponents when the two teams meet in Vancouver on June 18.

I came to check out the University of Toronto watch party at King’s College Circle. Students and families gathered in the sun on some nicely trimmed grass to watch the match.

Following the game, former UofT student Afaf Ghazi and her friend Simal Fatima said a draw is better than a loss. 

"They were so close," Fatima said.

"More than anything, I think it's also amazing seeing the atmosphere here. Seeing everyone rooting for Canada, you feel that sense of community," Ghazi added. 

You could feel the release as Larin's deflected shot hit the back of the net. 

Toronto Stadium erupted, but there were roars across the country as Canada finally found the goal its performance today deserved.

There were even chances to win it at the end, as Marsch's substitutes — Promise David, Ahmed, Osorio, Shaffelburg and Larin — injected new energy. 

Overall, it was an encouraging performance that the Canadians can draw from as they now look to beat Qatar in their next match. But it could have looked a lot different without Larin's lovely swivel in the box in the 78th minute.

Share your thoughts on Canada's 2026 World Cup opener against Bosnia-Herzegovina as the discussion continues post-game.

Crépeau is getting a standing ovation behind his net and plenty of fans are still on their feet waiting to wave the players off. 

Canada’s players are huddling in a circle, with coach Jesse Marsch in the middle.  

While it wasn't the win many hoped for, this result does secure one point for the Canadian squad and bolsters their odds of moving into the knockout round. 

The first men's World Cup game in Canada ends in a draw. Cyle Larin had the chance to win it late in extra time, but his extra touch opened the door for a huge block by Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemović.

The tie earns Les Rouges their first ever point in a World Cup tournament. It also makes Canada the first World Cup host to draw its opening match since South Africa in 2010. 

That comeback should be a point of pride for Canada.

Bosnia-Herzegovina are a frustrating side to break down and create chances against — as Italy learned in the World Cup playoffs.

And while the first Canadian win in a men's World Cup still eludes this team, the fightback against such a stubborn team should be a huge confidence booster for the co-hosts.

Canada led 13 to 8 in shots, 310 to 170 in accurate passes, and 38 to 14 in touches in the opponent's box. They also completed 58 per cent of all ground duels — even if they were outplayed in the air.

Credit to Marsch, whose substitutions changed the game for the better for the co-hosts.

Strangers are hugging strangers, caps are being thrown in the air to celebrate Canada's first goal of the tournament! 

Canada’s fans are howling as not one but two Bosnian players hit the pitch. Only the second was called a foul – possibly preventing a break. 

"Ref, you suck," the fans chant. Now that’s a North American soccer chant. 

Now even more heckles as Bosnia's Nikola Katić picks up a yellow card.

Jonathan Osorio is a famous name around these parts for his services to Toronto FC. They may have to build a statue for him here if he contributes to a winning goal — on his 34th birthday, no less. 

Captain Stephen Eustáquio makes way for the birthday boy in the midfield.

This is breathless stuff. Canada is still pressing hard but Bosnia-Herzegovina continue to look dangerous on the break. You feel like either team could score again.

More than enough time for either team to find a winner. The tension is so high!

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