Canada secure historic first World Cup point in Group B draw with Bosnia
Canada ended a winless streak in men’s World Cup history, but failed to secure a victory in their Group B opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Canada have secured their first-ever point in a men’s World Cup tournament after drawing 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Group B opener. The result, achieved at the Toronto Stadium before a predominantly Canadian crowd of approximately 43,000, ended a historic winless streak for the hosts, who had previously lost all six of their men’s World Cup matches across two prior tournaments.
Bosnia and Herzegovina, returning to the World Cup stage after a 12-year absence, took the lead in the 21st minute. Jovo Lukic scored his first international goal, directing a flick-on from a corner into the net to give the visitors an early advantage. The goal marked a significant moment for the Balkan side, who have been absent from the global tournament since 2014.
Canada, co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and the United States, responded with sustained pressure but struggled to convert high-probability chances. In the 17th minute, Canada’s all-time leading scorer Jonathan David sent a well-struck shot from the centre of the area directly at goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj. Shortly after, Ismael Kone’s strike sailed over the net, drawing audible groans from the boisterous crowd.
The hosts nearly equalised early in the second half when Richie Laryea broke through on goal. His shot appeared destined for the back of the net until Bosnia defender Sead Kolasinac made a critical intervention, deflecting the ball onto the crossbar and away from danger. Moments later, Bosnia nearly doubled their lead when Ermedin Demirovic went through on goal, but Maxime Crepeau, making his World Cup debut after missing the 2022 edition due to a broken leg, produced a crucial save.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 78th minute when substitute Cyle Larin made an immediate impact. Introduced in the 76th minute, Larin swivelled in the box and fired a deflected right-footed strike into the net, securing the point for Canada. The goal, scored on home soil, provided a late surge of energy for the hosts, though the final whistle confirmed a draw rather than the winning start they had sought.
