Canada defeat Ukraine and draw with Côte D’Ivoire to lift the inaugural Canadian Shield trophy in Toronto
Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team (CANMNT) were crowned champions of the Canadian Shield, a preparation tournament at BMO Field, ahead of next year’s FIFA World Cup. The 0:0 draw (5:4 defeat on penalties) against Côte D’Ivoire came on the heels of a 4:2 win against Ukraine this past Saturday. The win against Ukraine marked the first Men’s National Team win over a European opponent since 2011.
“It’s another step in the right direction and validates a lot of what we’re doing here. We used the entire squad over both games, and they all deserve this piece of silverware as we begin our journey at the Gold Cup next week,” shared MLS Canada Head Coach of the Men’s National Team, Jesse Marsch
In Canada’s 4:2 win over Ukraine (FIFA Rank #25), Jesse Marsch fielded a young lineup, starting five players with less than five CANMNT appearances. An eventful first half saw Jonathan David extended his all-time Men’s National Team goal lead with his 33rd and 34th goals for Canada, Promise Davidscored his first goal for Canada on his international debut, and Tajon Buchanan create two clear cut chances leading to two impressive goals. Buchanan got on the score sheet in the second half following an assist from 19-year-old Luc de Fougerolles, who put in his first 90-minute performance for Canada.
Canada made 10 lineup changes in their 0:0 draw against Cǒte D’Ivoire (FIFA Rank #41), showcasing CANMNT’s depth as the one-year countdown to the FIFA World Cup 26™ begins on Thursday 12 June.
CANMNT now turns their attention to this summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup, where they will face Honduras, El Salvador, and Curaçao in the Group Stage of the region’s premier international tournament. Canada’s competition will begin on 17 June as they take on Honduras at Vancouver’s BC Place before traveling to Houston for matches against Curaçao on 21 June and El Salvador on 24 June. The Group B winner and runner-up will advance to the knockout stage.
John Lobban
Men’s National Team Program Communications Manager, Canada Soccer
Email: jlobban@canadasoccer.com