Canada coach Jesse Marsch confirmed the captain will be fit for Thursday’s clash with Qatar after missing the opening match. Alphonso Davies sustained a hamstring injury in Bayern Munich’s Champions League semi‑final last month and has been under a return‑to‑play protocol. The left‑back trained lightly this week and is now cleared to travel with the squad.

Canada opened Group B with a 1‑1 draw against Bosnia‑Herzegovina, Cyle Larin equalising in the 78th minute. Qatar earned its first World Cup point by drawing Switzerland 1‑1, Boualem Khoukhi scoring in stoppage time. All four teams sit on a single point, making the upcoming fixture a critical test for the hosts.

Marsch stressed the decision will hinge on the match’s tempo and Davies’s ability to contribute without risking re‑injury. The veteran has 15 goals in 58 caps and last played in March 2025 after an ACL tear. Should he feature, Canada gains a dynamic outlet on the left, potentially tipping the balance in a tightly contested group.

Both teams will also contend with travel fatigue; Qatar arrived from Santa Clara while Canada remains in Toronto’s humid climate. Defensive solidity will be tested as Qatar’s midfielders look to exploit space left by Davies’s absence. A positive result could boost Canada’s confidence ahead of the final group game against the United States.