Wake Forest men's soccer alumni Alistair Johnston and Mark McKenzie will represent Canada and the United States, respectively, at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Johnston heads into his second World Cup after a successful season with Celtic, where he contributed to their fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title. Meanwhile, McKenzie completed his second season with Toulouse FC, contributing to 10 clean sheets and solidifying his place in the U.S. Men's National Team. Both players exemplify the high standards and success of the Wake Forest soccer program on the global stage.

By the Numbers
  • Johnston has made over 100 appearances with Celtic, scoring 6 goals and providing 17 assists.
  • McKenzie has played 66 matches for Toulouse FC, logging over 5,500 minutes and contributing to 10 clean sheets.
State of Play
  • Johnston earned 44 caps for Canada since 2021, playing every minute in the 2022 World Cup group stage.
  • McKenzie has achieved 20 caps, including 11 starts, since his senior debut in 2020.
What's Next

As they prepare for the World Cup, both Johnston and McKenzie may potentially become key figures for their teams, and their performances could influence future international selections and professional contracts. Their participation also reinforces Wake Forest's reputation in cultivating top athletic talent.

Bottom Line

The selections of Johnston and McKenzie for the World Cup highlight Wake Forest’s legacy in developing elite soccer players, showcasing how commitment and talent can lead to international success. Their journeys serve as an inspiration to young athletes pursuing their dreams.