Win worth the (long) wait

Canadian men's first victory on U.S. soil in 67 years stakes claim on road to World Cup

- JOE CALLAGHAN

Call him mystic Marsch?

Asked this week to predict a score line for his first showdown with his native country, Canada head coach Jesse Marsch offered an answer that was quick and clear: Canada 2, United States 1.

On Saturday afternoon in Kansas City, his inspired side made this most bold prediction come true as Jacob Shaffelburg and Jonathan David fired Canada to glory. Why was Marsch’s forecast brave? Hadn’t it after all been his side which progressed at Copa America as the U.S. floundered? Sure, but 67 long, barren years had passed since a Canadian men’s side defeated the Americans south of the border. Form can be temporary; that kind of pain felt permanent.

But no more. Marsch’s side was absolutely superb Saturday, bullying their 2026 World Cup co-hosts into a tame submission, the scoreline given a false gloss thanks to an American goal which looked to be offside. It wouldn’t be nearly enough as Shaffelburg’s well-finished opener and David’s second after the break, which moved the striker level atop Canada’s all-time scoring list, gave Marsch a sweet and statement victory.

As those in white with red pinstripes batted the Yanks back, defender Moïse Bombito was a giant among stellar performers. David was a towering, selfless presence up top and Ali Ahmed fearless on the wing. Marsch had already found momentum. Now he has a little history to go with it.

“Of course I enjoyed it … we were on the front foot the whole match,” he said afterward, an unwipeable smile on his face. “It made me proud to be their coach.”