Canada Announces Squad for Ecuador and Venezuela Friendlies
Canada has officially named its 24-player roster for upcoming friendly matches against Ecuador and Venezuela. These matches will take place on November 13 and November 18, 2023, providing crucial preparation ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
New Faces in the Canadian Squad
This squad features three newcomers. Alfie Jones, a defender from Middlesbrough, and Owen Goodman, a goalkeeper on loan at Huddersfield Town from Crystal Palace, are set to make their debuts. Marcelo Flores, a Tigres winger, joins as a training player. This selection highlights the depth and talent emerging in Canadian soccer.
Previous Performance
Currently ranked 28th in the world, Canada looks to improve after mixed results in the recent October international window. The team suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Australia and held Colombia to a scoreless draw.
Coach’s Statement
Head Coach Jesse Marsch emphasized the importance of these matches. “This is one of our final windows before the FIFA World Cup, and it will be crucial that we finish this year strong before the extended break,” he stated. Marsch expressed enthusiasm about showcasing the team’s progress in front of Canadian fans in Toronto.
Key Players
- Alfie Jones: A Southampton youth product, he has played 14 matches this season and scored once.
- Owen Goodman: Originally from East London, he spent part of his childhood in Alliston, Ontario. Goodman signed with Crystal Palace in 2021 and has yet to make a first-team appearance.
- Marcelo Flores: Born in Georgetown, Ontario, he has previously played for Mexico at the youth level. He has the potential to switch allegiance to Canada.
Match Schedule
Canada’s first friendly against Ecuador will occur at BMO Field in Toronto on November 13. The following match against Venezuela will take place at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on November 18. These fixtures present an opportunity for players to secure their spots for the World Cup.
World Cup Draw
Canada will learn its opponents for the 2026 FIFA World Cup during a live draw in Washington, DC, scheduled for December 5, 2023. This moment will be key as the nation prepares for its World Cup debut.
Canada’s Roster Overview
| Position | Player | Club |
|---|---|---|
| GK | Maxime Crepeau | Portland Timbers |
| GK | Owen Goodman | Huddersfield Town (loan from Crystal Palace) |
| DF | Alfie Jones | Middlesbrough |
| DF | Richie Laryea | Toronto FC |
| MF | Ali Ahmed | Vancouver Whitecaps |
| FW | Jonathan David | Juventus |
| Training Player | Marcelo Flores | Tigres |
This roster emphasizes the commitment to building a competitive squad for both the friendlies and the World Cup ahead.
