With the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than two weeks away, Canada’s men national team will look to sharpen their form with two friendlies this week, beginning with a clash against Uzbekistan on Monday.
Jesse Marsch’s side haven’t been able to stay healthy over the past few months leading up to the World Cup with numerous key players missing time due to significant injures.
Canada was dealt with another major blow on Saturday night when the dynamic Marcelo Flores was lost for the tournament after rupturing his ACL during the Concacaf Champions Cup final while playing for his club team, Tigres UANL of Mexico’s Liga MX.
Marsch has until June 11, a day before Canada’s first game against Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field, to find a replacement.
The coach noted Jayden Nelson, Daniel Jebbison, and Junior Hoilett are all candidates to fill the void during a media availability on Sunday.
As for Monday’s game, defender Richie Laryea will be in the lineup against Uzbekistan after missing recent games with his club team Toronto FC due to a thigh injury.
One of Canada’s most important players, defender Moïse Bombito, will also see minutes as he works his way back to full form after suffering a devastating fractured tibia in October playing for Ligue 1 club Nice.
Marsch did rule out midfielders Ali Ahmed and Jacob Shaffelburg due to their injures.
Most players will play 45 minutes with changes expected to happen at halftime.
Jesse Marsch says Alphonso Davies will arrive in Edmonton tonight around 11pm @TSN_Sports @TSNSoccer
— Matthew Scianitti (@TSNScianitti) May 31, 2026
Star Alphonso Davies was set to arrive in Edmonton on Sunday night, but won’t be in the lineup against Uzbekistan due to a hamstring injury suffered with Bayern Munich.
Davies’ status for the opening game against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12 is still up in the air.
Rain is expected to continue through Monday in Edmonton.
Battle in Net: Crépeau vs. St. Clair
One of the biggest decisions still to make is who will play goal for Canada’s opening game.
Marsch says Maxime Crepeau will start vs Uzbekistan and Dayne St. Clair will come in at halftime. "I told them to not read into it..." #CanMNT will make several changes come halftime. Ali Ahmed and Jacob Shaffelburg are not ready to play @TSN_Sports @TSNSoccer
— Matthew Scianitti (@TSNScianitti) May 31, 2026
Maxime Crépeau, the 32-year-old veteran for Orlando City, will start the first half against Uzbekistan with Inter Miami goalie Dayne St. Clair, 29, starting the second half.
Canada will play Ireland in an friendly on Friday.
