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

The Reds will take on the Asian Champions in Group B

Canada opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia, while Qatar earned their first-ever World Cup point against the Swiss dramatically. Group B could potentially be one of the most tightly contested at the World Cup. These two teams will be seeking their first World Cup victories as they will lock horns on Thursday.

Canadian fans have high expectations for their team, as they are playing at home and have some great players in their squad. Jesse Marsch will be confident going into this fixture, but he will have to make sure that his side doesn’t take Qatar lightly at all. As the race for the top two spots is heating up, Canada will hope to book their place in the knockout stages in this match only.

On the other hand, Qatar somehow got a point against the Swiss in the last minutes of the game. Switzerland took Qatar lightly and slowed down their intensity, which cost them the match. Qatar will know that Canada will not make the same mistake as well, and they will have to be very well prepared for this fixture. Overall, they looked very poor in every aspect, and Lopetegui will have to make sure his team do well against the hosts. This will be an exciting clash for sure.

Kick-Off:

• Location: Vancouver, Canada
• Stadium: BC Place Stadium
• Date: Thursday, 18 June
• Kick-Off Time: 11:00 PM (GMT) | 06:00 PM (EST) | 19/06/2026, 03:30 AM (IST)
• Referee: TBD
• VAR: In Use

Form

Canada (in all competitions): W-D-D-W-D-D

Qatar (in all competitions): L-D-L-L-D-D

Players to Watch

Jonathan David (Canada)

David’s season with Juventus didn’t go as planned, as he wasn’t able to score that many goals. But physically, he is in great shape, and his strength will be a big tool against Qatar’s defence. In 44 matches he played for Juventus this season, he scored eight goals and provided five assists. David will try to bounce back from a poor season and hopes to bring back his quality on the pitch.

Akram Afif (Qatar)

He is the star of the team, but his impact on the game was very minimal as Qatar most of the time defended in a low block. But his pace and dribbling ability will be a threat to the opposition defenders. This season, his performance hasn’t been great, but the team will rely on him to give his best. The Canadian fullbacks are very fast as well, so it will be tough for him to get past them. Lopetegui has full trust in him, and surely he will hope that his main man helps his team get more points in the World Cup.

Match Facts

• This will be the first time these two sides face each other in the World Cup
• Canada is undefeated against Qatar
• Canada beat Qatar by 2-0 in their last fixture

Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026 Full Fixtures, Schedule, Results, Match Timings & Where to Watch

Canada vs Qatar: Betting Tips & Odds

• Tip 1 – Canada to win this fixture – 2/7 by bet365
• Tip 2 – Both teams to score
• Tip 3 – Goals scored over 1.5

Injury and Team News

Moise Bombito of Canada is doubtful due to a left tibia injury; the rest of the players are fully fit to play, and there are no major injury concerns for the home side.

Qatar will have all the players available for the match.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 1

Canada: 1

Qatar: 0

Draws: 0

Predicted Lineups

Canada Predicted Lineup (4-4-2):

Crepeau; Johnston, De Fougerolles, Cornelius, Laryea; Buchanan, Eustaquio, Kone, Millar; J. David, Larin

Qatar Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

Abunada; Al-Oui, Miguel, Khoukhi, H. Ahmed; Gaber, Laye; Junior, Madibo, Afif; Ali

Match Prediction

Both sides earned their first points in their opening fixtures, and now they will look to secure more as the race for the top two spots heats up. Canada are favourites to win this match, as they are the home team and will most likely win this fixture.

Prediction: Canada 2-1 Qatar

Telecast Details

India: Unite8 Sports Channels

UK: BBC & ITV

USA: FOX Sports

Nigeria: DStv

Full Broadcaster List here.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.