Canada's World Cup run boosts hopes for 2030

Canada's men's team is carrying momentum from a historic World Cup campaign into the years ahead after reaching the knockout stage for the first time and advancing to the Round of 16 in 2026. The team opened the tournament with its firstever point and firstever win in a men's World Cup, then beat South Africa 10 before losing 30 to Morocco on Saturday. Players and coach Jesse Marsch said the experience should help the group grow and set a higher standard for future tournaments. Several younger players, including Luc de Fougerolles and Ali Ahmed, said the run has made them more motivated to return stronger for the next World Cup cycle. Alistair Johnston added that the team's success also showed the depth of support for soccer in Canada and could inspire the next generation of players.