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Canada Earns First Point in Historic 1‑1 Draw at World Cup Opening

ESPN Soccer •
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Canada hosted its first men’s World Cup match in Toronto, drawing 1‑1 with Bosnia‑Herzegovina. The game ended Canada’s six‑match losing streak dating back to 1986. Cyle Larin struck an equaliser in the 79th minute, sparking a roar from the packed Toronto Stadium and earning the nation its first point in front of a crowd of 53,000 fans this night.

With a 73% pass completion, Canada looked but lacked flair against Bosnia’s 61% accuracy. Coach Jesse Marsch admitted a slow start, noting his halftime talk shifted momentum. Larin had been rested the first time but came on after ten minutes left, scoring with his first touch and proving his season‑long form worth nine goals in 22 games this season.

Fans left the stadium disappointed by the draw, yet praised Canada’s dominance, especially when Bosnia’s veteran Edin Džeko was benched. Marsch urged supporters to channel their famed hospitality into a more aggressive home‑ground pressure, hoping it will help Canada secure a win and move closer to a knockout berth. The match marked a turning point for Canadian soccer history today.