What happened: Canada star Alphonso Davies has been officially ruled out of the national team's 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Friday. Head coach Jesse Marsch confirmed the decision following a final MRI, citing a lingering hamstring injury sustained in early May.

Why it matters: The absence of Davies strips Canada of its most dynamic offensive threat for the country's first-ever World Cup match on home soil. Head coach Jesse Marsch remains hopeful that the Alphonso Davies setback will be resolved in time for the remaining group stage fixtures.

By the numbers: Davies has recorded 15 goals and 18 assists in 53 career appearances for Canada. The national team enters the tournament ranked No. 38 in the FIFA World Rankings.

What to watch: Canada kicks off its World Cup campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field on June 12.

Sources