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Canada is set to clash with Suriname in the highly anticipated quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Nations League, scheduled for November 15 and November 19.
Published Nov 08, 2024 • 3 minute read
During an intense MLS soccer match against the New England Revolution, CF Montréal goalkeeper Jonathan Sirois showcased his talent with acrobatic saves, striving to keep his team competitive in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on September 18, 2024. This impressive performance was captured by AP photographer Charles Krupa.
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Goalkeeper Jonathan Sirois, noted for his agility and quick reflexes, along with defenceman Joel Waterman, have received their call-ups to represent the Canadian men’s national team for the upcoming international break in November.
Ranked 35th globally, Canada’s national soccer team will take on Suriname, which holds the 136th position in FIFA rankings, as they aim for progress in the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals.
The first leg of this thrilling matchup will unfold on November 15 in the vibrant city of Paramaribo, Suriname, before Canada hosts Suriname in a decisive return match on November 19 in Toronto.
The winners of the quarterfinals will not only secure a spot in the Nations League final at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles but will also earn qualification for the prestigious 2025 Gold Cup. Both semifinals are scheduled to take place on March 20, with the final and third-place match set for March 23.
Sirois and Waterman are part of a talented contingent from CF Montréal invited to participate in a national preparatory camp held in Toronto on November 4, aiming to sharpen their skills ahead of the critical matches.
Sirois’s inclusion marks his third call-up to the national squad, reflecting his growing significance within the team. The promising 23-year-old goalkeeper previously participated in a CONCACAF Nations League encounter against Trinidad and Tobago back in March.
In his last appearance with the national team, Waterman made a substantial impact by coming on late in Canada’s hard-fought victory against Panama, where his defensive contributions were crucial. He also logged 20 minutes in a notable 2-0 triumph over the United States, which marked his return to the squad since the Copa America in June.
Returning to the squad is Quebecer and former CF Montréal midfielder Ismaël Koné, who adds depth to the team after overcoming an ankle injury sustained while playing with Olympique de Marseille in France. His absence was felt during Canada’s last three matches since the Copa America encounter against Uruguay in July.
Excitingly, Inter Milan winger Tajon Buchanan, who has successfully recovered from a leg injury incurred during training sessions ahead of this summer’s Copa America, will also make his comeback. Additionally, the seasoned 34-year-old Junior Hoilett, who has been absent since the team’s 4-0 loss to the Netherlands in June, adds further experience to the squad.
Thirteen of the 23 players on the Canadian roster are 25 or younger, with the youngest being 19-year-old defender Jamie Knight-Lebel, currently on loan at Crewe Alexandra from Bristol City in England.
Bayern Munich superstar Alphonso Davies will captain the side, supported by seasoned players such as Stephen Eustaquio, Jonathan Osorio, Richie Laryea, Alistair Johnston, and Kamal Miller, contributing their invaluable experience and leadership.
However, in a setback for the team, center back Derek Cornelius will miss this international window after exiting Marseille’s recent victorious match against Nantes on a stretcher. Initial fears of a broken rib were alleviated when tests revealed a fractured piece of cartilage between his ribs, indicating a recovery period of several weeks.
Canada has faced Suriname twice in the past, both times during World Cup qualifying matches. Their previous encounters resulted in solid victories: a commanding 4-0 triumph in suburban Chicago in June 2021 and an earlier 2-1 win in Mexico City in October 1977.
Canada, alongside Mexico, the United States, and Panama, received a bye into the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Nations League. The Canadian team, ranked second in the CONCACAF standings, drew Suriname as the best-placed runner-up from League A play.
Last year, Canada faced disappointment in the Nations League quarterfinals, losing to Jamaica under the away-goals rule after a thrilling 4-4 aggregate draw. Additionally, they fell short against the United States in the final of the 2022-23 tournament and finished fifth in the 2019-20 edition.
Canada’s latest outing saw them secure a victory against Panama, winning 2-1 in a friendly match in Toronto on October 15.
Canada Roster
Goalkeepers:
- Maxime Crépeau, Portland Timbers (MLS);
- Jonathan Sirois, CF Montréal (MLS);
- Dayne St. Clair, Minnesota United FC (MLS).
Defenders:
- Moise Bombito, OGC Nice (France);
- Alphonso Davies, Bayern Munich (Germany);
- Richie Laryea, Toronto FC (MLS);
- Alistair Johnston, Celtic (Scotland);
- Jamie Knight-Lebel, Crewe Alexandra, on loan from Bristol City (England);
- Kamal Miller, Portland Timbers (MLS);
- Joel Waterman, CF Montréal (MLS).
Midfielders:
- Ali Ahmed, Vancouver Whitecaps (MLS);
- Tajon Buchanan, Inter Milan (Italy);
- Mathieu Choinière, Grasshopper Zurich (Switzerland);
- Stephen Eustaquio, FC Porto (Portugal);
- Junior Hoilett, Hibernian FC (Scotland);
- Ismaël Koné, Olympique Marseille (France);
- Jonathan Osorio, Toronto FC (MLS);
- Jacob Shaffelburg, Nashville SC (MLS);
- Niko Sigur, Hadjuk Split (Croatia).
Forwards:
- Theo Bair, AJ Auxerre (France);
- Jonathan David, LOSC Lille (France);
- Cyle Larin, RCD Mallorca (Spain);
- Tani Oluwaseyi, Minnesota United (MLS).
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**Interview with Soccer Analyst Emma Langley: Previewing Canada’s Clash with Suriname**
**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Emma! Exciting times for Canadian soccer as the national team prepares to face Suriname in the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals. What are your thoughts on Canada’s chances in this matchup?
**Emma Langley:** Good afternoon! It’s definitely an exciting time. Canada is currently in great form and has a talented squad. Their FIFA ranking of 35 shows they are a formidable opponent. I believe they have a strong chance against Suriname, especially given their past victories over them in World Cup qualifying.
**Interviewer:** Canada has had some impressive performances lately, including a recent win against Panama. How important will this momentum be going into the upcoming matches?
**Emma Langley:** That victory against Panama was crucial for their confidence. Winning games helps build chemistry among players, especially with new call-ups like Jonathan Sirois and Joel Waterman. Carrying that momentum into the quarterfinals is key; it can really set the tone for how they perform in critical moments.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of players, which individuals do you think will be pivotal for Canada in these matches against Suriname?
**Emma Langley:** Of course, Alphonso Davies will be pivotal as captain. His experience and skills can change the dynamics of a game. Additionally, look out for Sirois — he’s shown great potential as a goalkeeper and will need to be at his best. Players like Junior Hoilett and Stephen Eustaquio bring valuable experience and leadership, which is vital in knockout stages.
**Interviewer:** Given that Suriname is ranked lower than Canada, do you think there’s a risk of underestimating the opponent?
**Emma Langley:** That’s always a risk in soccer. Rankings can be deceptive, and Suriname will be eager to prove themselves. Canada needs to stay focused and not take their opponents lightly. Preparing for Suriname’s strengths and having a solid game plan will be essential.
**Interviewer:** What do you expect to see in terms of strategy from Canada in the first leg in Paramaribo?
**Emma Langley:** I anticipate a balanced approach. Canada may start off defensive to gauge Suriname’s strategy before adjusting accordingly. They’ll likely look to control possession and exploit any gaps in Suriname’s defense, especially in transition.
**Interviewer:** what’s at stake in this match beyond just a place in the semifinals?
**Emma Langley:** A lot! Not only does the winner secure a spot in the Nations League final, but they also qualify for the prestigious Gold Cup. This is a great opportunity for Canada to showcase their growth and solidify their standing in international football.
**Interviewer:** Thanks, Emma, for your insights! We’ll be looking forward to the matches in November.
**Emma Langley:** Thank you! It’s going to be an exciting few weeks for Canadian soccer fans!