With the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than two weeks away, Canada's men's national team will look to sharpen their form in two friendlies this week, beginning with a clash against Uzbekistan on Monday.
Jesse Marsch's side has struggled with injuries throughout the buildup. Several key players have missed significant time, and the team was dealt another blow when Marcelo Flores ruptured his ACL during the Concacaf Champions Cup final while playing for Tigres UANL in Mexico's Liga MX.
Roster decisions loom
The coach has until June 11—exactly one day before Canada's opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field—to settle on his squad.
"Jayden Nelson, Daniel Jebbison, and Junior Hoilett are all candidates," Marsch said during Sunday's media availability.
Defender Richie Laryea returns after sitting out recent Toronto FC matches with a thigh injury. Moïse Bombito, one of Canada's most important players, will also see minutes as he works back to full fitness following a fractured tibia sustained in October with Ligue 1 club Nice.
Ali Ahmed and Jacob Shaffelburg have been ruled out with injuries.
Plan for Monday's lineup
Most players will feature for 45 minutes, with changes expected at halftime.
Star Alphonso Davies arrived in Edmonton on Sunday night but will not play against Uzbekistan due to a hamstring injury suffered with Bayern Munich. His status for the June 12 opener remains uncertain.
The goalkeeper situation remains unsettled. Maxime Crépeau, the 32-year-old veteran from Orlando City, will start the first half. Dayne St. Clair, 29, from Inter Miami will take over in the second half.
Rain is expected to continue through Monday in Edmonton.
Canada will face Ireland in a friendly on Friday.