Canada learned its path through Group H at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following Friday’s draw. After a brutal campaign in 2022, the team will again face a demanding group, though this time with the support of home crowds in Toronto and Vancouver.
Switzerland: a high-level opening test
The first opponent drawn alongside Canada came from Shaquille O’Neal’s hands: Switzerland.
The Swiss arrive in excellent form, riding a 10-match unbeaten run, which includes a 4–0 win over the United States and a 4–2 victory over Mexico.
It is a disciplined, experienced side that has consistently reached the knockout rounds and poses an immediate challenge for Canada’s young squad.
Qatar: opportunity in a balanced group
Aaron Judge then drew Qatar from Pot 3.
Still carrying the weight of its poor 2022 campaign, Qatar enters this World Cup cycle as the least imposing team in the group. This is the matchup Canada is expected to target for points — potentially decisive in the race for a top-two finish or a best-third-place spot.
UEFA playoff: Italy headlines the field
Wayne Gretzky finalized the group by selecting the UEFA playoff path, which includes Italy, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Italy is the natural favorite based on pedigree, even amid recent inconsistency, while Wales projects as a competitive outsider. Whoever emerges is likely to offer a stern challenge in Canada’s opening match.
Canada’s Group Stage Schedule
Matchday 1:
Canada vs. UEFA Playoff Winner — June 12, BMO Field, Toronto
Matchday 2:
Canada vs. Qatar — June 18, BC Place, Vancouver
Matchday 3:
Canada vs. Switzerland — June 24, BC Place, Vancouver
Canada will contest the entire group stage on home soil, leaning on strong local support to push for a knockout-round berth.
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The Pitchside US Staff
Next steps: warm-up plans pending
Unlike the United States and Mexico, Canada has not yet announced its 2026 friendly schedule. The federation is expected to stage at least one match in Toronto and a farewell fixture in Montreal ahead of the tournament.
Germany has been mentioned as a likely opponent, though nothing is confirmed.
