For the Canada MNT, this game against Romania was more than a friendly.
With other countries fighting for World Cup qualification, Canada didn’t have to worry about that, as they were one of the 2026 hosts. But that didn’t mean they could relax and enjoy the vibes. After the failures of the Gold Cup and CONCACAF Nations League, the Canada MNT needed to use these friendlies as dress rehearsals for the World Cup.
The poor showings in the Gold Cup and Nations League revealed that there were still numerous issues within this Canada side. These friendlies would help people learn what kind of team Canada is heading into the World Cup and what worked and didn’t work.
Up first was 48th-ranked Romania. They are in the midst of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1998. For the Canada MNT, this was the first of two big tests in September. This was the first ever meeting between Romania and the Canada MNT.
First half: Canada MNT were cooking
Canada wanted to set the tempo early. They were pressing hard and winning the ball back.
Tajon Buchanan was causing problems for Romania on the right side with his pace. The Villarreal winger won a pivotal free kick. As a result, Ali Ahmed’s free kick found the head of Jonathan David. The new Juventus man made no mistake and did what he did best. That was David’s 37th goal for the Canada MNT. This goal was nice.
Canada was cooking. They were moving the ball well, and the press was very active. Buchanan, Ahmed, David, and Tani Oluwaseyi, in particular, were very threatening, just like Great White Sharks.
It was Ahmed who smelled blood and got a bite. Romanian goalkeeper Horatiu Moldovan decided to do an Andre Onana impression. Ahmed pressed him and managed to take the ball away and tuck the ball into the net. That was the Vancouver Whitecaps winger’s first goal for Canada, and what a way to do it. That’s why you always press the goalkeeper folks. Romanian fans were probably thinking “What the Helly” at Moldovan’s mistake. It was a dream start for the Canada MNT.
Canada was also doing a good job of preventing Romania’s counterattacks. Derek Cornelius was everywhere and flattening the Romanian attackers like a road roller.
Ismael Kone and Stephen Eustaquio were also dictating the play in the midfield with their press and quick passes on the transition. Kone looked like his Copa America self again.
Canada was cooking in that half. That was the best half from Canada MNT in a long time. It also showed Jesse Marsch’s soccer on full display with the active press, quick transitions, and passing.
Second half: Took care of business
The Canada MNT looked to keep the momentum going.
Romania forward Denis Dragus was their biggest threat. However, Cornelius, Ahmed, and Richie Laryea were nullifying him easily.
Canada did not hold back with the press. Despite Romania getting more possession, Canada were still poised to win the ball back.
Maxime Crépeau was sharp. He made a marvelous save off Dragus’ one-time attempt. That looked like a sure goal, but Crépeau was on high alert as Canada started to look shaky defensively.
Nike Sigur wasn’t too noticeable in this game, but that was a good thing. He was doing the little things as the right-back with his tackles and passes. But the Burnaby native decided to make his presence more known.
This was some good build-up by Sigur, alongside Oluwaseyi. And then he finished it by blasting the ball past by Moldovan. What a hit!
It was a very impressive performance by the Canada MNT. That was their best performance under Marsch. A lot of things were clicking, and every player on the pitch did their job. Canada needed this performance, and this shows, when they are clicking, they are dangerous.
Stat of the match
In addition to his goal and assist, Ahmed created the most chances (four) in the match according to Fotmob.
Tweet of the match
It was surreal seeing Junior Hoilett still play for Canada. Judging from the 11 minutes he played off the bench, he still has the pace and creativity.
Wrap-up
Hopefully, this win gives Canada confidence going forward. This was a job well done. They travel to Swansea to play 31st-ranked Wales. Kickoff is at 11:45 am Pacific.
