Canada opens its new competitive cycle Friday against Guatemala in the first leg of a Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal, with Alphonso Davies returning to the national team and Richie Laryea starting at right back. Toronto FC teammates Theo Corbeanu and Richard Chukwu are on the bench. The two-leg winner advances to the Nations League Finals and qualifies for the 2027 Gold Cup.

By the Numbers
  • 2 quarterfinal legs: Friday in Guatemala City and Monday at Toronto’s BMO Field.
  • 1 Nations League Finals spot and 1 berth in the 2027 Gold Cup are at stake.
  • Davies is back with Canada for the first time in nearly 2 years.
Yes, But

Canada has reason for optimism with Davies available, but injuries have ruled out Jacob Shaffelburg and Jonathan Osorio. Guatemala has also proved a difficult opponent, eliminating Canada on penalties in the 2025 Gold Cup quarterfinals and drawing with the Canadians in the 2023 group stage.

State of Play
  • Laryea starts at his natural right-back position as Davies returns at left back.
  • Corbeanu and Chukwu begin on the bench; Jesse Marsch says Corbeanu must show he can contribute beyond his attacking strengths.
  • Canada’s earlier 1-0 win over Guatemala came in an unofficial friendly.
What’s Next

Canada plays the first leg in Guatemala City Friday at 9 p.m. ET, then hosts the return leg in Toronto on Monday. The winner advances to the Nations League Finals in March and earns a place in next June’s Gold Cup.

Bottom Line

With silverware and a Gold Cup berth on the line, Canada’s first test of the new cycle is a demanding two-leg matchup—and a chance to see how Davies’ return reshapes the team.