How Canada kept World Cup dreams alive with epic coach’s decision

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway, with North America playing host across three countries: The United States of America, Mexico, and Canada. Mexico already put three points on the board on Thursday, defeating South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the tournament.

Following South Korea’s 2-1 win vs. Czechia, it was Canada’s turn to take the pitch. They played host to Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto on Friday afternoon. Canada was in search of its first-ever victory at any World Cup.

They entered the match 0-0-6 (Win-Draw-Loss) all-time. Playing at home, against one of the weaker squads at this year’s World Cup, aspirations were high.

But they were dashed early, as Bosnia-Herzegovina jumped out to an early 1-0 lead.

Jovo Lukic found the back of the net with a header off a corner kick in the 21st minute. The host country carried much of the play from there on out, with forward Tani Oluwaseyi creating chances. However, Canada was unable to find an equalizer.

Shortly after the controversial hydration break, Canadian coach Jesse Marsch opted to pull Oluwaseyi off the pitch. He was replaced by Southampton forward Cyle Larin in the 76th minute.

Larin, who has played across Europe in the Turkish, Belgian, and Spanish leagues, recently inked a two-year contract to remain with the EFL Championship club.

Remarkably, on Larin’s very first touch, he tied the match, 1-1. He took the perfect one-touch pass from Promise David and beat the Bosnian keeper to level the score.

Ryan Reynolds celebrating Canadas first goal in this years World Cup to tie the game up! pic.twitter.com/e66DNU87a6

— Coby’s Gambling Corner (@CobyValentine24) June 12, 2026

The stadium erupted, with Canadian movie star and soccer enthusiast Ryan Reynolds celebrating with fans.

It took less than two minutes for Marsch’s decision to play Larin to pay off. Canada nearly found a winner late, but was subdued. The game ended in a 1-1 draw. Although it was not Canada’s first-ever World Cup win, it was their first-ever point.

They have matches against Qatar and Switzerland remaining in Group B play. Under the new structure of the World Cup, it is possible three teams can advance to the knockout rounds from this group. Were that to happen, this point would prove crucial, as would Marsch’s timely decision.

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