CANMNT prepares for crucial World Cup tune-ups with first-ever meeting against Romania and fourth encounter with Wales
Canada Soccer has unveiled a 24-player roster for two pivotal September friendlies that will serve as crucial preparation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil. The Canadian Men’s National Team (CANMNT) will face Romania for the first time in history before taking on Wales in what promises to be a challenging European tour.
High-Stakes European Test
The Maple Leafs will kick off their September campaign against Romania (FIFA rank #48) on Friday, September 5 at Arena Națională in Bucharest, before traveling to face Wales (FIFA rank #31) four days later at Swansea.com Stadium. These matches represent more than just friendlies – they’re measuring sticks for a Canadian side looking to bounce back from a disappointing Gold Cup performance.
“The Gold Cup did not go the way we planned, and the group is eager to get back to work again,” said head coach Jesse Marsch. “Romania and Wales are both formidable opponents and playing away from home always presents a challenging opportunity. These are the kinds of games that will show us where we stand and where we still need to improve with less than a year until the World Cup.”
Historic FIFA Ranking Achievement
The timing couldn’t be better for Canada, who recently climbed to their highest-ever FIFA ranking at #28 – surpassing their previous best of #30 set in March 2025. This remarkable rise of 22 spots since February 2024 demonstrates the program’s upward trajectory under Marsch’s leadership.
Squad Breakdown: Experience Meets Youth
Goalkeepers: The three-man keeper corps features MLS veterans Maxime Crépeau (Portland Timbers), Jayden Hibbert (Atlanta United), and Dayne St. Clair (Minnesota United FC).
Defense: The backline blends seasoned internationals with emerging talent, headlined by Derek Cornelius from Olympique de Marseille and Toronto FC’s Richie Laryea. Young prospects like 19-year-old Luc de Fougerolles (on loan at F.C.V. Dender E.H. from Fulham) and 20-year-old Jamie Knight-Lebel (Bristol City FC) signal Canada’s commitment to youth development.
Midfield: The engine room showcases Canada’s depth with established stars like Tajon Buchanan (Villarreal CF), Stephen Eustáquio (FC Porto), and Ismaël Koné (U.S. Sassuolo Calcio). MLS representation comes through Ali Ahmed and Jayden Nelson (both Vancouver Whitecaps FC) and Jacob Shaffelburg (Nashville SC).
Attack: The forward line features Europe-based firepower with Jonathan David leading the charge from Juventus FC, supported by Cyle Larin (RCD Mallorca) and promising talents Promise David (Royale Union Saint-Gilloise) and Tani Oluwaseyi (Minnesota United FC).
What’s at Stake
These friendlies carry extra weight following Canada’s underwhelming Gold Cup campaign. With the 2026 World Cup less than a year away, Marsch needs to identify his core group and tactical approach for the tournament on home soil.
The Romania fixture marks uncharted territory – Canada has never faced the Eastern European side. Wales, meanwhile, represents familiar opposition, with this being the fourth all-time meeting between the nations.
Looking Ahead: October Homecoming
The September window sets up an exciting October that will see Canada return to Montréal for the first time since 2017, hosting Australia at Stade Saputo on October 10. The month concludes with an away fixture against Colombia at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, on October 14.
How to Watch
Both September friendlies will air live on OneSoccer, available through fuboTV Canada, Telus Optik TV (Channel 980), OneSoccer.ca, and the OneSoccer app. Extended coverage will be available across Canada Soccer’s social media channels using #CANMNT.
Canada Soccer News:
- Canada Soccer Unveils U-18 Squad for Finland Training Camp Ahead of 2027 World Cup Cycle
- Canada Soccer Partners with FIFA+ to Broadcast PDP Championship to Global Audience
- Canada Soccer’s Boys’ U-15 National Team Squad for 2025 CONCACAF Boys’ U-15 Championship
For more exclusive Canadian soccer coverage and insider analysis, follow Bad Dawg Sports across all platforms. We bring you the stories others can’t tell you.
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