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Canada captain Alphonso Davies delivered an emotional speech before his team’s first men’s World Cup match on home soil, helping set the tone ahead of a 1-1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field on Friday.
Although Davies was unable to play as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury, with hopes of returning later in the group stage, head coach Jesse Marsch invited him to address the squad before kickoff.
Davies was present in Moscow when Canada secured co-hosting rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in 2018 and is now participating in his second World Cup after representing Canada in Qatar four years ago.
“Think back at that time when you’re a boy, glued to the TV, when you’re watching the World Cup for the first time, watching your idols play in this tournament,” Davies said. “Think about the time where you dream about moments like this. Fast forward to 2026, here we are. All the times that your parents sacrificed, the people that you love are there with you, confidence they gave you.
“You go out, you show them and the world how good we are as individuals and as a team. You play for this badge in the front, so they can remember the name in the back.”
His words were met with an enthusiastic response from Canada’s players as they prepared to take the field in Toronto.
Canada began the match with high intensity before becoming more cautious as the game progressed. However, the second half produced a memorable moment for the home supporters.
Jesse Marsch’s substitutions helped spark a late comeback, highlighted by Cyle Larin scoring the first men’s World Cup goal on Canadian soil. The goal energized both the crowd and the team as Canada earned a draw.
Canada’s next match will take place at BC Place in Vancouver, the stadium where Davies began his professional career with the Vancouver Whitecaps.