Canada salvages 1-1 draw against Bosnia in World Cup 2026 opener

Canada's bid to start the 2026 World Cup on a winning note was thwarted as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Bosnia-Herzegovina in a lively Group B encounter. The co-hosts struggled to find their rhythm early on and fell behind in the 21st minute when Jovo Lukic scored his first international goal from a corner flick-on.

Despite falling behind, Canada rallied and created numerous opportunities to equalize. Richie Laryea came close in the 53rd minute, but his shot was miraculously deflected onto the crossbar by Bosnia's Sead Kolasinac. The Canadian attack continued relentlessly, peppering the Bosnian defense with crosses, but a lack of precision in their finishing threatened to cost them dearly.

Substitute Cyle Larin, introduced in the 76th minute, proved to be the catalyst for Canada's comeback. He made an immediate impact, swiveling in the box and firing home a deflected shot just three minutes later to level the score and ignite the home crowd. The draw leaves both teams with a point in the early stages of the tournament.