Canada earned their first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup finals after battling back to secure a 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina in their opening Group stage match of the 2026 World Cup.
Cyle Larin struck in the 78th minute to salvage a share of the spoils for the co-hosts after Jovo Lukic had given Bosnia-Herzegovina the lead midway through the first half in the first World Cup finals match ever played on Canadian soil.
The result ended a long wait for Canada, which had lost all six matches in its previous World Cup appearances in 1986 and 2022.
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Bosnia strike first despite Canadian dominance
Bosnia-Herzegovina stunned the home crowd when Lukic rose highest from a corner to score, sending the travelling Bosnian supporters inside Toronto Stadium into celebration.
Despite dominating possession and creating the better chances, Canada struggled to find a breakthrough in front of their passionate home fans.
Jonathan David tested Bosnian goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj in the 17th minute, but his effort was comfortably saved.
Canada came even closer after the half-hour mark when Ismael Kone found space in the box, only to blaze his effort over the crossbar, drawing groans from the sea of red-clad supporters.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Canada pushing forward in search of an equaliser while Bosnia remained organised at the back.
Larin delivers a historic moment
Veteran defender Sead Kolasinac produced a crucial intervention to preserve Bosnia’s lead, diverting a goal-bound effort from David onto the crossbar.
But Canada’s persistence finally paid off 12 minutes from time when Larin found the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The historic goal was cheered on by a host of celebrities in attendance, including Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Mike Myers.
Canada’s World Cup hopes remain alive
Canada pressed for a late winner but ultimately had to settle for a point ahead of their next fixture against Qatar in Vancouver on June 18.
“It was special for me. I was ready to come and help the team,” Larin said after the match.
“I thought the goals would come. I score when Canada needs me, and always have done.
“We just have to stay concentrated. We’ll be playing at home and just have to push the limit.”
The draw keeps Canada’s hopes alive as they continue their quest to progress beyond the group stage on home soil.
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