Canada predicted lineup vs Qatar for FIFA World Cup 2026

Canada eye a win against Qatar after a draw in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener.

Canada will be aiming to claim their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory when they host Qatar in a crucial Group B clash at BC Place on Thursday. After opening their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Jesse Marsch’s side know that three points could significantly boost their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.

Qatar, meanwhile, are also searching for their maiden World Cup win after sharing the spoils with Switzerland in their opening fixture. With both teams locked on one point, the encounter has all the ingredients of a must-win contest. History slightly favours the hosts.

Canada won the only previous meeting between the two nations. It was a 2-0 victory in an international friendly in September 2022. Goal scorers on the day: Jonathan David and Cyle Larin.

The return of Alphonso Davies, coupled with the experience of Jonathan David and Cyle Larin, gives the hosts plenty of reasons to believe they can finally make history on home soil.

Also read: Will Alphonso Davies play tonight for Canada vs Qatar in FIFA World Cup 2026?

Who all will be in Canada’s predicted XI?

The biggest positive for Canada ahead of the match is the availability of Alphonso Davies. After missing the opening fixture through injury, the Bayern Munich star has trained throughout the week. He is expected to make his first appearance of the tournament at BC Place – the stadium where he began his professional club career with the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Davies’ return significantly strengthens Canada’s left flank while also improving their build-up play. His pace and attacking movement should create more space in midfield for Ismaël Koné and Stephen Eustáquio to dictate the tempo. It will allow Canada to adopt a more progressive approach without losing balance.

At the back, however, there are still concerns over Moise Bombito. He continues to recover from a left tibia injury. The defender remains doubtful, meaning promising youngster Luc de Fougerolles is likely to retain his place alongside Derek Cornelius in central defence.

Further forward, Cyle Larin has put himself firmly in contention for a starting role after making an immediate impact against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The experienced striker came off the bench to score Canada’s equaliser just minutes after replacing Tani Oluwaseyi. He could now partner Jonathan David from the opening whistle.

David, Canada’s all-time leading scorer, will once again spearhead the attack despite scoring only once.

Canada predicted lineup (4-4-2): Maxime Crépeau (GK); Richie Laryea, Luc de Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, Alphonso Davies; Tajon Buchanan, Stephen Eustáquio, Ismaël Koné, Liam Millar; Jonathan David, Cyle Larin.

Also Read: Preview: Canada vs Qatar prediction, odds, where to watch, time | FIFA World Cup 2026

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