Canada begins a two-game series against Guatemala with a place in the 2027 Concacaf Nations League Finals—and direct qualification for the 2027 Gold Cup—at stake. Alphonso Davies returns in strong form, but a long injury list will test Jesse Marsch’s depth and create openings for emerging players.

By the Numbers
  • Canada is No. 27 in the FIFA rankings; Guatemala is No. 95.
  • The teams meet Nov. 13 in Guatemala City and Nov. 16 in Toronto.
  • Davies has 3 goals and 3 assists in 15 appearances for Bayern Munich this season.
  • Canada is missing 9 players from its original squad due to injuries.
Yes, But

Canada is the higher-ranked side, but Guatemala upset it on penalties in the 2025 Gold Cup quarterfinals. The current injuries also leave Canada without several regular starters, including midfielder Stephen Eustáquio and striker Cyle Larin.

State of Play
  • Davies is back after missing the September–October window and appears fit and in form.
  • Young defenders Richard Chukwu and Jovan Ivanišević could see expanded roles, while forward Jacen Russell-Rowe is among the options up front.
  • Toronto FC winger Theo Corbeanu has a chance to earn playing time after joining as an injury replacement.
What's Next

The two-leg winner advances to the Nations League Finals at SoFi Stadium in March 2027 and qualifies directly for the Gold Cup. The loser must go through the Gold Cup preliminary round.

Bottom Line

Davies’ return lifts Canada, but this series is also a test of whether Marsch’s younger options can fill major gaps—and avoid another upset against Guatemala.