Canada played its first home men’s World Cup match on Friday, June 12, 2026, drawing 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field in Toronto. Cyle Larin scored a late equalizing goal to salvage a point for the host nation in front of 43,002 fans, including Hollywood celebrities Ryan Reynolds and Mike Myers.
The match marked a historic moment for Canadian soccer as the country welcomed the men’s World Cup to its soil for the first time. Singer-songwriter Alanis Morissette performed O Canada during the opening ceremony, setting the stage for what became a dramatic contest that went down to the final minutes.
Larin Rescues Canada With Late Goal
The Canadian men’s national team found themselves trailing Bosnia and Herzegovina for much of the match before Cyle Larin delivered the crucial equalizer. The late goal sparked celebrations throughout BMO Field and ensured Canada earned a point in their historic home opener.
Canadian defender Alistair Johnston spoke about the intensity of the match and the atmosphere created by the home supporters. Describing the fans, Johnston said, “You know, it wasn’t just ‘We’re showing up there for a picnic and a good afternoon.’ They were fully invested.”
The result means Canada avoided defeat in their first World Cup match on home soil, a significant achievement given the pressure and expectations surrounding the historic occasion.
Star-Studded Crowd Attends Historic Match
The first men’s World Cup match in Canadian history attracted an impressive roster of celebrities to BMO Field. Actor and Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds was among the high-profile attendees, along with NHL star Connor McDavid and Canadian comedy legend Mike Myers.
Myers showed his national pride by wearing a Canada jersey paired with a red bucket hat as he watched the action unfold at the Toronto stadium. Music producer Boi-1da was also spotted at the venue during the broadcast.
Canada coach Jesse Marsch admitted he was focused on the match and only learned about some of the celebrity attendees afterward. “Mike Myers was here? Oh sweet. I saw (music producer) Boi-1da on the TV at one point,” Marsch said. “I know that there’s a lot of different people that are enjoying the World Cup in Canada, but my job, I’m focused, so lasered in on just making sure that we can give the country a team to be proud of.”
What We Know So Far
Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina finished level at 1-1 in the World Cup Group Stage match played at BMO Field in Toronto. Cyle Larin scored the equalizing goal for Canada late in the match. The attendance was officially recorded at 43,002 fans.
This was the first men’s World Cup match ever played on Canadian soil. Canada will host a total of 13 World Cup matches between Toronto and Vancouver during the tournament.
Alanis Morissette performed the Canadian national anthem during the opening ceremony before the match. Multiple celebrities including Ryan Reynolds, Connor McDavid, and Mike Myers attended the game.
What Happens Next
Canada will continue its World Cup campaign with additional group stage matches. The country is set to host 13 total World Cup matches across two venues, with games scheduled in both Toronto and Vancouver.
The draw means Canada earned a point in the standings, keeping their tournament hopes alive as they prepare for upcoming fixtures. Coach Jesse Marsch and his team will look to build on the momentum from Larin’s late equalizer.
Canada’s History as Major Event Host
While this marks the first time Canada has hosted the men’s World Cup, the country has experience staging major international sporting events. Canada hosted the Women’s World Cup in 2015 and the Summer Olympics in Montreal in 1976.
The 2026 men’s World Cup represents another milestone for Canadian sports, bringing the world’s most-watched sporting event to Canadian cities for the first time in the tournament’s history.
The Atmosphere at BMO Field
The 43,002 fans who packed BMO Field created an electric atmosphere for the historic occasion. Players and coaches noted the passionate support from the home crowd throughout the match.
Johnston’s comments about the fans being “fully invested” reflected the intensity of the support from Canadian supporters who witnessed their team compete in a home World Cup match for the first time. The crowd remained engaged throughout the contest and erupted when Larin found the equalizing goal late in the match.
The opening ceremony featured Alanis Morissette’s rendition of O Canada, adding to the significance of the occasion as Canada welcomed the global soccer community to Toronto.
Key Players in the Match
Cyle Larin emerged as the hero for Canada with his crucial late goal. The striker’s composure in a high-pressure moment prevented what would have been a disappointing defeat in the team’s historic home opener.
Coach Jesse Marsch guided his team through the high-stakes match, emphasizing his laser focus on giving Canada a team the country could be proud of. The American-born coach managed to keep his squad composed despite the intense atmosphere and the presence of numerous celebrities in the crowd.
Defender Alistair Johnston provided insight into the team’s mentality and appreciation for the support they received from the home fans at BMO Field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of Canada’s first home World Cup match?
Canada drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field in Toronto on June 12, 2026. Cyle Larin scored the equalizing goal for Canada late in the match.
Which celebrities attended Canada’s World Cup match?
Ryan Reynolds, Connor McDavid, and Mike Myers were among the celebrities who attended the match at BMO Field. Myers wore a Canada jersey and red bucket hat. Alanis Morissette performed the national anthem during the opening ceremony.
How many World Cup matches will Canada host?
Canada will host 13 World Cup matches during the 2026 tournament. The matches will be held at venues in Toronto and Vancouver.
Has Canada ever hosted the World Cup before?
This is the first time Canada has hosted the men’s World Cup. Canada previously hosted the Women’s World Cup in 2015 and the Summer Olympics in Montreal in 1976.
Who scored for Canada against Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Cyle Larin scored the late equalizing goal for Canada, helping the team secure a 1-1 draw in their first home World Cup match.
The draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina gave Canada its first point of the 2026 World Cup on home soil, with 43,002 fans witnessing the historic moment at BMO Field in Toronto.
