Head coach Jesse Marsch told reporters in Toronto that he often had to beg U.S. players to sing the national anthem during his 2010‑11 stint as USMNT assistant. He contrasted that with his current squad, saying every Canadian chants the anthem loudly to showcase pride in the jersey. He said the difference fuels his belief that national pride can translate into on‑field intensity.

Marsch, now leading Canada into its third World Cup and first as co‑host, highlighted the players’ work ethic and character ahead of the opening group match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. He recalled the 2010 run that reached the round of 16 after a 1‑1 draw with England, noting the contrast between past U.S. apathy and today’s Canadian enthusiasm and a unified locker‑room vibe.

The coach’s remarks come as Canada prepares to face Bosnia, then Qatar on June 18 and Switzerland on June 24, matches that will determine whether the nation can finally break the group‑stage barrier. With the United States opening against Paraguay, Marsch’s anthem story adds a cultural subplot to a tournament where both North‑American teams hope to exceed expectations and a narrative that resonates beyond sport.