Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina-Group B Preview

Canada Chase History on Home Soil — Without Their Captain

The first men's FIFA World Cup match ever played in Canada takes place Friday. Les Rouges host Bosnia-Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium in a historic Group B opener.  
This is not just another game. Canada want their first ever World Cup win. The pressure is real.

Canada's Record Demands a Win

Canada are still looking for their first ever win in a men's FIFA World Cup match. They have lost all six of their previous World Cup games. 

They lost 1-0 to France in 1986. Four years ago, Belgium beat them by that same scoreline in Qatar.

That record ends Friday — or it extends to seven defeats.

Davies Ruled Out of the Opener

Alphonso Davies will miss Canada's World Cup opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina. He is still recovering from a hamstring issue.  

Davies suffered a hamstring tear during Bayern's Champions League semifinal against PSG on May 6.

Canada's captain and Bayern Munich left-back will not play Friday. His availability had been a constant topic of debate since he arrived in camp on June 1. 

His absence hurts. But Canada still have Jonathan David, Jacob Shaffelburg, and Tajon Buchanan up front.

Canada's Confidence Is High

Marsch's side remain unbeaten across their last eight matches. They have not suffered a defeat yet in 2026. 

Across that unbeaten run, Canada kept six clean sheets. Their defensive solidity stands out as a real strength. 

Canada have lost just one of their last 28 matches at BMO Field. That one defeat was a 3-2 loss to Jamaica in November 2023. 

Home advantage is real. The crowd will push them.

Bosnia — Dark Horses Who Shocked Italy

Do not underestimate Bosnia. They earned their place here the hard way.

Bosnia-Herzegovina qualified by knocking Italy out of World Cup qualifying in the playoff final in March. 

The squad revolves around veteran Edin Džeko. The 40-year-old striker is part of an exclusive club of players aged 40 and over taking part in this World Cup. 

Under Sergej Barbarez, Bosnia remain unbeaten in their last eight games. They won both playoff matches on penalties. 

Over their last six outings, they conceded one goal or fewer in each game. Their defensive structure is very hard to break down. 

Why This Match Decides Group B's Fate

Switzerland are heavy favourites to win Group B. That means this match is effectively the battle for second place before it has even started.  Bosnia are not going to outscore Switzerland over 90 minutes. A point here matters enormously to both sides.  

Match Details: