Given that the last time Canada was playing in a World Cup Finals was almost four decades ago, those that are excited to see the country take to the field in the upcoming edition in Qatar this winter would be forgiven if they were unable to wait for too much longer.
Indeed, the last time the Maple Leafs appeared at a FIFA World Cup was back in 1986 when it was held in Mexico. In fact, up until now, it was the only appearance that the nation had ever made at this iconic tournament, thus really helping to build excitement around the country.
Canada has star players that could help the nation enjoy a successful tournament.
However, while there is a buzz around the fact that it will be the first appearance in 34 years, others will be excited because of the quality of the players in the squad that are likely to head to Qatar this November for this sports competition.
While no one is expecting Canada to be challenging for the FIFA World Cup, there is an element of confidence around the country that they could be in a position to spring a few surprises in the Group Stage, with the nation set to compete in a tough Group F.
The Canadians have already been written off by many because they are in a Group of Belgium, Croatia, and Morocco, with each of the nations set to be faced having plenty of previous tournament experience and quality on the field in almost every single position.
Nonetheless, a few Maple Leafs could make a world of difference, and really put the cat amongst the pigeons when it comes to matchday in Qatar…
Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David are Canadian superstars!
Of course, if you take a look at the Canadian squad and the group of players that manager John Herdman can potentially call upon, then you might notice that there are two names that could make all the difference in the Group Stage of this year’s 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Naturally, the first name that many will immediately point out is Alphonso Davies, with the FC Bayern man being a game star and one of the most exciting and talented players ever represented the Canadian national team.
The versatile left-sided player – who can play as a left-back or a winger – has already been able to accomplish so much in his career despite still only being 21 years old. There is plenty of hope on his shoulders regarding the nation’s chances.
Given his experiences with the Bundesliga club, though, and the fact that he has been able to win a number of matches and trophies across some of the biggest tournaments including the UEFA Champions League, it is perhaps hardly a surprise that so many are of the opinion that he could help the national team progress through Group F, with many also thinking about him as a potential betting opportunity for the tournament.
Indeed, with World Cup betting for Qatar 2022 now possible for many Canadians around the country, many have highlighted the experienced 21-year-old as a potential prop bet as they feel he can make a huge difference with his ability.
Some may decide to place bets on things such as his ability to help the team keep a clean sheet, concede as few goals as possible, create a goal, or even score one or two in the upcoming group matches, although those that are thinking about goals being scored might want to consider Jonathan David.
The 22-year-old forward has been incredible in his short career thus far and is already on the verge of catching up with all-time leading scorer Cyle Larin for the most goals scored for his country. David has 22 goals so far, whereas Larin has 25.
While both strikers will be key for the national team to progress from Group F, many will be hoping the youngster is able to continue his red-hot form as he has started the beginning of the Ligue 1 season with LOSC Lille in the perfect way.
David has already managed to net a total of nine goals thus far this season, which is more than Paris Saint-Germain trio Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, and Neymar JR. Of course, if he can bring this deadly touch and form with him to Qatar, Canada will be feeling rather confident.
What are the realistic expectations for Canada in Group F?
As mentioned already in this article, Canada will take on Belgium, Croatia, and Morocco (in that order) in Group F, thus making life potentially difficult for the Maple Leafs in their quest to advance from the Group Stage and play in the knockout rounds of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
They are ranked the lowest of each of the nations heading into the tournament this winter, with each of the three teams having played in numerous editions over the years. Furthermore, the fact that they will play the two European sides first could make things extremely difficult, as they could end up losing both of their first two games, thus making it incredibly challenging for them to qualify with just one game remaining.
The Red Devils are considered to be among the top footballing nations, while Croatia were able to get to the final of the 2018 FIFA World Cup before being beaten by France. However, with players such as Davies and David leading the line, anything can happen on a soccer pitch!
Final Thoughts
Regardless of whether Canada will be able to progress from Group F this winter and play in the knockout stages of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, fans will undoubtedly be excited to see the national team compete on the field in Qatar.
Indeed, it would be easy to suggest that Davies and David are going to be key players for the Maple Leafs. Still, everyone is going to need to have to play their roles perfectly if they are to enjoy a successful competition, rather than being in the Middle East to make up the numbers.
