Who are the key players in Canada’s 2023 Gold Cup roster. What is the team composition for the upcoming tournament. How does the squad compare to previous lineups. What are Canada’s chances in the competition.
Team Composition and Structure
The Canadian national soccer team has unveiled its roster for the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup, featuring a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents. The 23-man squad, selected by head coach John Herdman, demonstrates Canada’s depth and ambition as they aim to make a strong impact in the tournament.
The team’s structure is as follows:
- Goalkeepers: 3
- Defenders: 9
- Midfielders: 5
- Forwards: 6
This distribution highlights a strong defensive focus, with flexibility in attacking options. The average age of the squad is approximately 26 years, indicating a good balance between youth and experience.
Key Players and Their Roles
Several standout players are expected to play crucial roles in Canada’s Gold Cup campaign:
Milan Borjan (Goalkeeper)
At 35, Borjan is the most experienced player in the squad. His leadership and shot-stopping abilities will be vital in guiding the team’s defensive efforts.
Steven Vitoria (Defender)
The 36-year-old center-back brings a wealth of experience to the backline. His commanding presence and aerial ability make him a key figure in both defensive and offensive set-pieces.
Stephen Eustaquio (Midfielder)
At 26, Eustaquio represents the prime of Canadian soccer talent. His technical skills and vision in midfield will be crucial in controlling the tempo of games and creating opportunities for the forwards.
Junior Hoilett (Midfielder/Forward)
With 33 years of experience, Hoilett’s versatility and creativity in attack could be a game-changer for Canada. His ability to play across the front line provides tactical flexibility for the team.
Rising Stars to Watch
The Canadian squad also features several young players poised to make their mark on the international stage:
- Jayden Nelson (Forward, 20 years old)
- Jacen Russell-Rowe (Forward, 20 years old)
- Victor Loturi (Midfielder, 22 years old)
- Ali Ahmed (Defender, 22 years old)
These young talents represent the future of Canadian soccer and will be looking to use the Gold Cup as a platform to establish themselves in the national team setup.
Tactical Flexibility and Formation Options
The composition of the squad suggests that Canada could employ various tactical formations:
- 4-3-3: A balanced formation allowing for strong midfield control and width in attack.
- 3-5-2: Utilizing the depth in defense to provide solidity while allowing wing-backs to contribute to attacks.
- 4-2-3-1: A formation that could maximize the team’s creative midfielders while providing defensive stability.
The variety of player profiles in the squad gives Coach Herdman the flexibility to adapt his tactics based on the opposition and game situations.
MLS Influence on the Canadian Squad
The influence of Major League Soccer (MLS) on the Canadian national team is evident in this Gold Cup roster. A significant portion of the squad plays their club football in the MLS, highlighting the league’s importance in developing Canadian talent.
How many MLS players are included in Canada’s Gold Cup squad? The roster features 10 MLS players, representing various clubs across the league. This strong MLS presence underscores the growing quality of the league and its role in nurturing Canadian soccer talent.
Some notable MLS players in the squad include:
- Dayne St. Clair (Minnesota United FC)
- Kamal Miller (Inter Miami CF)
- Jonathan Osorio (Toronto FC)
- Jacob Shaffelburg (Nashville SC)
The familiarity these players have with each other from competing in the same league could potentially enhance team chemistry and understanding on the field.
International Experience and Club Representation
The Canadian squad boasts a mix of players from domestic and international clubs, bringing diverse experiences to the team:
- European Leagues: Players like Milan Borjan (Red Star Belgrade) and Stephen Eustaquio (FC Porto) bring high-level European experience.
- MLS: As mentioned, a significant portion of the squad plays in the North American league.
- Other Leagues: The squad also includes players from leagues in Turkey, Poland, and the Netherlands, adding to the team’s global perspective.
This variety of club backgrounds could prove beneficial in adapting to different playing styles throughout the tournament.
Canada’s Gold Cup History and Expectations
Canada enters the 2023 Gold Cup with a rich history in the competition. How many times has Canada won the Gold Cup? Canada has clinched the Gold Cup title twice, in 1985 and 2000. However, it’s been 23 years since their last major tournament victory.
Despite the long wait for another title, expectations for the Canadian team are high. Their recent performance in the Concacaf Nations League, where they reached the final before falling to the United States, demonstrates their competitiveness at the highest level of CONCACAF football.
For the 2023 Gold Cup, Canada is placed in Group D alongside:
- Guadeloupe
- Guatemala
- Cuba
As the highest-ranked team in their group, Canada is expected to progress to the knockout stages. Their opening match against Guadeloupe on June 27th at BMO Field in Toronto will be crucial in setting the tone for their campaign.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Canada enters the tournament as one of the favorites, they face several challenges:
- Pressure of Expectations: As a top-ranked CONCACAF team, Canada will be expected to perform well, which could add pressure on the players.
- Squad Depth: With a busy schedule of three group matches in eight days, managing player fatigue and utilizing the full squad will be crucial.
- Adapting to Different Opponents: Each group stage opponent presents unique challenges, requiring tactical flexibility.
However, these challenges also present opportunities:
- Platform for Young Talent: The tournament provides an excellent opportunity for younger players to gain valuable international experience.
- Building Momentum: A strong performance could build confidence and momentum leading into future competitions, including World Cup qualifiers.
- Tactical Development: The diverse opposition allows Canada to refine various tactical approaches, beneficial for long-term team development.
How will Canada approach these challenges? Coach Herdman’s experience and the team’s recent form suggest they are well-equipped to handle the pressures of the tournament. The mix of veteran leadership and youthful energy in the squad provides a solid foundation for success.
Key Matches to Watch
While all matches are important in a tournament setting, some fixtures stand out:
- Canada vs Guadeloupe (June 27): The opening match will set the tone for Canada’s campaign.
- Canada vs Guatemala (July 1): Potentially the toughest group stage match, this could decide the group winner.
- Canada vs Cuba (July 4): The final group match could be crucial for securing a favorable knockout stage draw.
Each of these matches presents unique tactical challenges and opportunities for Canada to showcase their strengths.
Impact of Recent Performances
Canada’s recent performances in international competitions have raised the profile of the national team. Their impressive showing in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where they topped the CONCACAF qualifying group, and their run to the 2023 CONCACAF Nations League final have demonstrated the team’s growth and potential.
How do these recent performances influence Canada’s Gold Cup campaign? The team’s success has:
- Boosted confidence within the squad
- Raised expectations from fans and media
- Potentially altered how opponents approach matches against Canada
These factors could play a significant role in shaping Canada’s Gold Cup journey. The team will need to balance the confidence gained from recent successes with the pressure of heightened expectations.
Player Form and Fitness
The form and fitness of key players will be crucial to Canada’s success in the Gold Cup. Several players come into the tournament on the back of strong club seasons:
- Stephen Eustaquio: Had a successful season with FC Porto, gaining valuable Champions League experience.
- Jonathan Osorio: A consistent performer for Toronto FC in the MLS.
- Kamal Miller: Has been a standout defender for Inter Miami CF.
However, managing player workload will be essential, especially for those coming off long European seasons or involved in the recent Nations League matches.
The Road Ahead: Beyond the Gold Cup
While the focus is firmly on the Gold Cup, it’s worth considering how this tournament fits into Canada’s longer-term soccer objectives. Success in the Gold Cup could provide:
- Momentum for future World Cup qualifying campaigns
- Opportunities for player development and team cohesion
- Increased support and investment in Canadian soccer
How does the Gold Cup performance impact Canada’s soccer future? A strong showing could cement Canada’s status as a rising power in CONCACAF, potentially leading to more high-profile friendlies and increased attention from top clubs for Canadian players.
Building a Legacy
The current generation of Canadian players has the potential to leave a lasting legacy on the nation’s soccer landscape. Success in the Gold Cup, coupled with their recent achievements, could inspire a new generation of young Canadians to pursue soccer, further strengthening the country’s talent pool for years to come.
As Canada embarks on its Gold Cup journey, the blend of experienced veterans and exciting young talents provides a foundation for success. The tournament offers an opportunity for Canada to assert its growing influence in CONCACAF and build momentum for future competitions. With a balanced squad, tactical flexibility, and recent positive performances, Canada enters the Gold Cup as one of the teams to watch, carrying the hopes of a nation eager for soccer glory.
Canada Roster & Squad – Soccer
SOCCER >
NEWS
SCHEDULE
STANDINGS
SOCIAL
ROSTER
VIDEOS
STATS
ODDS
Milan Borjan#18 | G | 35 | 6’4″ | 182 lbs |
Tom McGill#16 | G | 23 | 6’0″ | – |
Dayne St. Clair#1 | G | 26 | 6’3″ | 165 lbs |
Sam Adekugbe#3 | D | 28 | 5’8″ | 165 lbs |
Ali Ahmed#20 | D | 22 | 5’10” | – |
Moise Bombito#14 | D | 23 | 6’2″ | – |
Zachary Brault Guillard#2 | D | 24 | 5’7″ | 145 lbs |
Scott Kennedy#23 | D | 26 | 6’2″ | – |
Richie Laryea#22 | D | 28 | 5’8″ | 149 lbs |
Zac McGraw#15 | D | 26 | 6’3″ | 205 lbs |
Kamal Miller#4 | D | 26 | 6’0″ | 165 lbs |
Steven Vitoria#5 | D | 36 | 6’4″ | 189 lbs |
Dominick Zator#6 | D | 28 | 6’2″ | 180 lbs |
Stephen Eustaquio#7 | M | 26 | 5’10” | 154 lbs |
Liam Fraser#3 | M | 25 | 6’0″ | 178 lbs |
Junior Hoilett#10 | M | 33 | 5’8″ | 154 lbs |
Victor Loturi#12 | M | 22 | 5’8″ | – |
Jonathan Osorio#21 | M | 31 | 5’8″ | 160 lbs |
David Wotherspoon#8 | M | 33 | 5’7″ | 167 lbs |
Charles-Andreas Brym#19 | F | 24 | 5’10” | 149 lbs |
Lucas Cavallini#9 | F | 30 | 5’10” | 189 lbs |
Liam Millar#11 | F | 23 | 5’9″ | 158 lbs |
Jayden Nelson#7 | F | 20 | 5’6″ | 145 lbs |
Jacen Russell-Rowe#17 | F | 20 | 6’0″ | – |
Jacob Shaffelburg#13 | F | 23 | 5’10” | 149 lbs |
25 | – | 26. | 5’10” | 165.7 lbs |
Canada roster for 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup: 10 MLS players called up
MLSsoccer staff
Twitter
Facebook
GOALKEEPERS (3)
- Milan Borjan – Red Star Belgrade
- Tom McGill – Brighton & Hove Albion FC
- Dayne St. Clair – Minnesota United FC
DEFENDERS (9)
- Samuel Adekugbe – Galatasaray SK
- Moïse Bombito – Colorado Rapids
- Zachary Brault-Guillard – CF Montréal
- Scott Kennedy – SSV Jahn Regensburg
- Richie Laryea – Toronto FC
- Zac McGraw – Portland Timbers
- Kamal Miller – Inter Miami CF
- Steven Vitória – GD Chaves
- Dominick Zator – Korona Kielce
MIDFIELDERS (5)
- Ali Ahmed – Vancouver Whitecaps FC
- Stephen Eustáquio – FC Porto
- Victor Loturi – Ross County FC
- Jonathan Osorio – Toronto FC
- David Wotherspoon – No club
FORWARDS (6)
- Charles-Andreas Brym – FC Eindhoven
- Lucas Cavallini – Club Tijuana
- Junior Hoilett – Reading FC
- Liam Millar – FC Basel
- Jacen Russell-Rowe – Columbus Crew
- Jacob Shaffelburg – Nashville SC
Canada games: Gold Cup, Group D
- June 27 vs.
Guadeloupe – 7:00 pm ET (OneSoccer in Canada, FS1 in United States) | BMO Field (Toronto, Canada) - July 1 vs. Guatemala – 9:30 pm ET (OneSoccer in Canada, FS1 in United States) | Shell Energy Stadium (Houston, Texas)
- July 4 vs. Cuba – 6:30 pm ET (OneSoccer in Canada, FS1 in United States) | Shell Energy Stadium (Houston, Texas)
Guadeloupe – 7:00 pm ET (OneSoccer in Canada, FS1 in United States) | BMO Field (Toronto, Canada)Canada enter the competition as clear favorites in Group D, where they’ll debut against Guadeloupe. Additional matches against Guatemala and Cuba will follow.
Les Rouges are two-time Gold Cup champions, having lifted the trophy in 1985 and 2000. That triumph from 23 years ago is their last major tournament win, although they came close to ending their title drought at the Concacaf Nations League, falling 2-0 to the United States in Sunday night’s final.
The 2023 Gold Cup Final will be held July 16 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
Roster notes
Herdman kept 16 of the 23 players included in the Nations League roster for the Gold Cup, with six newcomers brought into the fold: CF Montréal’s Zachary Brault-Guillard, Nashville SC winger Jacob Shaffelburg, Columbus Crew striker Jacen Russell-Rowe, Portland Timbers defender Zac McGraw, Vancouver Whitecaps FC midfielder Ali Ahmed and Charles-Andreas Brym (FC Eindhoven).
McGraw, Ahmed and Russell-Rowe all received their first international call-ups. Colorado Rapids center back Moïse Bombito was a part of the Nations League squad, but has yet to earn his first cap with Canada.
Toronto FC lead the list of MLS clubs represented in the squad with two players: Richie Laryea and Jonathan Osorio. The latter is set to participate in his sixth Gold Cup with Canada, equaling a mark set by Julian de Guzman and the recently-retired Atiba Hutchinson.
Notable absentees include Alphonso Davies, Cyle Larin, Alistair Johnston and Ismaël Koné, who were given time off to prepare for the upcoming 2023-24 European club season.
Transfer Tracker
San Jose Earthquakes give Cristian Espinoza contract extension
Smith: Don’t forget “very special” Hany Mukhtar during Messi Mania!
Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United: Rested Atlanta can ruin Messi’s second match
The Daily Kickoff
Your Monday Kickoff: MNUFC make a statement, where each Leagues Cup group stands
Transfer Tracker
CF Montréal sign Kwadwo Opoku to new contract
Transfer Tracker
Columbus Crew transfer Miloš Degenek to Serbia’s Red Star Belgrade
HIGHLIGHTS: Columbus Crew vs.
:format(webp)/https/www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/sports/hockey/2023/05/05/toffoli-fantilli-highlight-canada-roster-for-upcoming-world-hockey-championship/20230505120512-64552b182e202ba084a1baaejpeg.jpg)
St. Louis CITY SC | July 23, 2023
Own Goal: J. Russell-Rowe, CLB, 84′
PK Goal: C. Hernández vs. STL, 29′
Goal: L. Zelarayán vs. STL, 11′
Canada – Extended squad | Transfermarkt
team details by position
| Role | ø-age | Cost | ø-Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | 27.17 | 7.00 million € | 1.17 million € | |
| Protector | 26.71 | 96.75 million € | 5.69 million € | Midfielder | 27.27 | 34.30 million € | 3.12 million € |
| Forward | 23.86 | 97.75 million € | 6.98 million € | |
| Total: | 26.06 | 235.80 million € | 4. 91 million € | |
| Club(s) | Team | Read more | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal | 1 | 4 | 5 | |
| Without club | 1 | 1 | 2 | |
| Vancouver | 1 | 1 | 2 | |
| Nashville | 1 | 1 | 2 | |
| Toronto | 1 | 1 | 2 | |
| KMSK Deinze | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Basel | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Brighton | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Wolfsberg | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Miami | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Tijuana | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Columbus | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Colorado | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Crown Kielce | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Minnesota | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Nottingham | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Portland | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Reading | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Ross County | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Rosenborg | 1 | – | 1 | |
Sparta R. | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Chaves | 1 | – | 1 | |
| Bavaria | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Bruges | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Halifax | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Grasshopper | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Cardiff | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Lille | – | 1 | 1 | |
| LA Galaxy | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Los Angeles | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Malmö | – | 1 | 1 | |
| New England | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Porto | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Real Valladolid | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Celtic | – | 1 | 1 | |
St. Louis City | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Slovan Bratis. | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Watford | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Hatayspor | – | 1 | 1 | |
| Espanyol B | – | 1 | 1 | |
Team of Canada in the season 2023-2024 : Players Coach
Canada
Schedule
Roster
IIHF Rating
Hockey Betting
Chief Head Coach – Andre Turigny
Gate ari
age
height
weight
27. Levi Devon
183
cm,
Buffalo
35. Montaignebu Samuel
191
cm,
Montreal
195
cm,
st. 576 181
cm,
Vancouver
20. Barron Justin
188
cm
Montreal
73.
Joseph Pierre-Olivier 900 77 24
years
188
cm 3
years
203
cm 77
cm,
Minnesota
52. Wigar Mackenzie
183
cm 88
cm,
Detroit
77. Hunt Brad
34
175
90 002 cm,
Colorado
Forwards
91. Blais Samuel
188
cm, 900 77
St. Louis
90. Veleno Joseph
23
186
cm 24
189
cm
cm,
Tucson
19. Krebs Peyton
22
183
900 02 cm,
Buffalo
67. Kruse Lawson
193
cm,
Arizona
22. Quinn Jack
183
cm,
90 576
Buffalo
21. Lawton Scott
185
cm,
Philadelphia
17 . Lucic Milan
191
cm,
Boston
22. McBain Jack
23
9 0077 193
cm,
Arizona
63 Neighbors Jake
183
cm 576 183
cm,
New Jersey
19.
