After a messy June international window for a Canadian men’s national team who didn’t get the proper tests they needed, Canada passed one of their final tests ahead of the World CupWith flying colors, the friendly win was 2-0 in Qatar.
Canada’s first-half goals were crucial. Jonathan David and Cyle David scored, and Canada was able make well-timed link-up play to move the ball about a Qatari side that never looked in command in possession.
“We can score from anywhere,” Larin told OneSoccer postgame.
Canadian defender Sam Adekugbe provided a cross for Larin in five minutes. He also added to his Canadian record with a header. It was his 25th goal for Canada. Larin didn’t exactly have a plethora of chances, but it is nevertheless encouraging for the men’s team that Larin, who has been fighting for minutes with Club Brugge, didn’t need much time to convert his first chance.
Larin offered an early answer for questions about how the Canadian forward line would look in Qatar. David scored his 22nd goal for Canada after a little scramble in front the Qatari goal in 14 minutes. David’s finish on the second goal was clinical, but Canada’s ability to be patient with the ball in the middle of the pitch stood out in this last stretch. They likely won’t have possession for much of the World Cup, but there’s reason to believe they can look comfortable when they do.
Perhaps even more notable was David’s celebration after the goal. David covered his Nike logo on his jersey with a light smile. Canada is the only country that won’t be receiving a new kit at the World Cup.
