Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina – Match Preview and Team News

Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina – Match Preview and Team News as Canada begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field in Toronto.

Jesse Marsch’s side enters the tournament carrying the hopes of a nation as Canada prepares to play its first-ever men’s World Cup match on home soil. Consequently, a passionate Toronto crowd will expect a positive start from the tournament co-hosts in this crucial Group B opener.

However, Bosnia and Herzegovina arrive determined to spoil the party. Sergej Barbarez has guided his side back to the global stage for only their second World Cup appearance, and veteran captain Edin Džeko will be eager to inspire one final memorable tournament. With both nations targeting a place in the knockout rounds, the stakes could hardly be higher.

Match Details

Date: 12/06/2026

Location: Toronto, Canada

Stadium: BMO Field

Kick-off Time: 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. BST / 12:30 a.m. IST (Next Day)

Referee: Facundo Tello (Argentina)

Last Meeting: Canada 0-0 Bosnia and Herzegovina (11/06/2019, International Friendly)

Team News

Canada

Canada received a major setback ahead of the tournament after centre-back Moïse Bombito was ruled out through injury. Nevertheless, head coach Jesse Marsch still possesses an exciting squad capable of troubling any opponent.

Captain Alphonso Davies remains the key figure despite ongoing concerns surrounding his hamstring fitness. The Bayern Munich star is Canada’s only World Cup goalscorer and will be central to both defensive and attacking phases. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau is set to start after missing the 2022 World Cup through injury.

Further forward, Jacob Shaffelburg will hope to overcome fitness concerns and provide his trademark pace in transition as Canada chase a historic first World Cup victory.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia arrive with a blend of experience and emerging talent. Captain Edin Džeko, now 40 years old, is expected to lead the line in what could be his final major international tournament.

Veteran defender Sead Kolašinac brings leadership to the back line, while VfB Stuttgart forward Ermedin Demirović offers support in attack. Goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj is expected to retain his place between the posts.

The Dragons were forced into a late squad change after reserve goalkeeper Osman Hadžikić withdrew through injury. Mladen Jurkas has been called up as his replacement.

Form

Canada form (all competitions): W W D W W

Bosnia and Herzegovina form (all competitions): W D W L W

Predicted Lineups

Canada Possible Starting XI: Crépeau; Johnston, Cornelius, Miller, Davies; Eustáquio, Koné, Osorio; Buchanan, David, Shaffelburg

Bosnia and Herzegovina Possible Starting XI: Vasilj; Gazibegović, Kolašinac, Barišić, Dedić; Tahirović, Krunić, Gigović; Demirović, Džeko, Hajradinović

Match Prediction

Our Score Prediction: Canada 1-0 Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia possess enough experience and quality to frustrate the hosts for long periods, particularly through the leadership of Edin Džeko and Sead Kolašinac. However, the atmosphere inside BMO Field should provide a significant boost for Canada in this historic occasion.

Marsch’s side has developed into a disciplined and energetic unit, losing just once in their previous eighteen matches. Backed by a passionate home crowd, Canada should eventually find a breakthrough and secure a narrow but valuable opening victory.

How to Watch Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina on TV, Live Stream?

United Kingdom: BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport, Prime Video UK

United States: FOX, FS1, FOX Sports App, FOX One

Canada: CTV, TSN, RDS

India: zee5