Canada’s men’s soccer team may have lost the final match in a shootout, but they still came out on top in the inaugural Canadian Shield Tournament held in Toronto. Despite a 5-4 penalty defeat to reigning African champions Ivory Coast after a scoreless draw, Canada finished first on points, clinching the trophy with four total — one ahead of New Zealand and Ukraine, and two ahead of Ivory Coast.
The unusual format meant Canada needed only to reach penalties to secure the title, having already beaten Ukraine 4-2 and earned more points than their rivals. That outcome gave fans fireworks, a trophy lift, and Queen’s We Are The Champions ringing out at BMO Field.
Coach Jesse Marsch called the tournament a success, noting Canada is better prepared for the 2026 World Cup after facing top-tier opponents. “We bent at moments but didn’t break,” he said of the physical contest with Ivory Coast, who dominated early but failed to convert.
The Canadians used a deeper lineup this time, with Cyle Larin captaining the squad. Stars Jonathan David and Tajon Buchanan came off the bench late, while young prospects Daniel Jebbison and Jayden Nelson earned first starts. Defender Sam Adekugbe left with a calf injury and is due for a scan.
Stephen Eustaquio was honoured pregame for his 50th cap, and Jonathan Osorio’s 85th cap moved him into third all-time for Canada.
Canada now turns to the CONCACAF Gold Cup, where it will face Honduras, Curaçao, and El Salvador in June.
Swifteradio.com
