Key Takeaways:
- Canada defeated Guatemala 1-0 in a men’s soccer B international match on Saturday
- Jacen Russell-Rowe scored the winning goal in the 66th minute, assisted by Malik Henry
- The match was downgraded to a B international, meaning it did not count in the FIFA rankings and players involved did not receive senior caps
- Canada coach Jesse Marsch used the game as a "developmental game" to test players out of season
- The team will play two games in Toronto during the March 23-31 international window and then face Uzbekistan on June 1 in Edmonton
Introduction to the Match
The Canadian men’s soccer team secured a 1-0 victory over Guatemala in a B international match on Saturday, with Jacen Russell-Rowe scoring the winning goal in the 66th minute. The match, played at BMO Stadium, saw Canada dominate possession and create several scoring chances, but it was Russell-Rowe’s header from a perfect cross by substitute Malik Henry that ultimately decided the game. The win was a welcome result for Canada, who were looking to test their players out of season and gain valuable experience ahead of the World Cup.
First-Half Highlights
The first half of the match was marked by a lack of clear scoring opportunities, with both teams struggling to create chances. However, Canada’s Austin FC winger Jayden Nelson was a bright spot, causing problems for the Guatemalan defense down the left flank. Despite this, the Guatemalan goalkeeper, Kenderson Navarro, was equal to the task, making several key saves to keep the score level. The half was also marred by several incidents of bad blood, including a crunching tackle by Canada’s Ralph Priso on Guatemala’s Marvin Avila, which earned Priso a yellow card.
Second-Half Action
The second half saw Canada continue to dominate possession, with Russell-Rowe and Rayan Elloumi playing up front. The breakthrough finally came in the 66th minute, when Russell-Rowe headed home Henry’s cross to give Canada the lead. The goal was a welcome relief for the Canadian team, who had been creating chances throughout the match. Despite the win, Canada could have scored more, with Navarro making several key saves to deny them. The match also saw several substitutions, with Canada coach Jesse Marsch using the opportunity to test his bench and give players valuable experience.
Coach’s Perspective
Marsch described the match as a "developmental game," using it as an opportunity to test players out of season and gain valuable experience. The coach was pleased with the performance of his team, particularly the young players who were given a chance to shine. Marsch also praised the experienced players, such as Toronto FC fullback Richie Laryea, who captained the side and led by example. The coach will be looking to build on this performance as Canada prepares for the World Cup, with several key matches scheduled in the coming months.
Upcoming Matches
Canada’s next matches will be played during the March 23-31 international window, with two games scheduled in Toronto against yet-to-be announced opposition. The team will then face Uzbekistan on June 1 in Edmonton, followed by a final World Cup warm-up match on June 5 or 6 in Montreal. The Canadians will open their World Cup campaign on June 12 against a European qualifier in Toronto, before facing Qatar and Switzerland in Vancouver. With a strong squad and a positive result against Guatemala, Canada will be looking to make a strong impression at the World Cup.
Historical Context
The match against Guatemala was the 27th-ranked Canadian men’s first game since November 18, when they blanked Venezuela 2-0 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Canada has a strong record against Guatemala, with a 10-2-3 record in their previous meetings. However, the two teams last met in the Gold Cup quarterfinals in June 2025, with Guatemala prevailing 6-5 in a penalty shootout after the game finished knotted at 1-1. Canada will be looking to build on their recent win and continue their strong form ahead of the World Cup.
