Main Story

Canada surged to a 3-0 halftime lead over Guatemala in the Nations League quarterfinal after Alphonso Davies suffered a muscle injury just minutes into his first international start in more than 600 days. Tani Oluwaseyi, Liam Millar and Jonathan David scored for Canada, which now faces a major concern over its captain ahead of the return leg in Toronto.

By the Numbers
  • Canada led 3-0 at halftime.
  • Davies was injured within minutes of kickoff, in his first Canada start in more than 600 days.
  • The quarterfinal is a two-leg series, with the return match scheduled for Monday at BMO Field.
Yes, But

Canada’s emphatic first-half response followed a shaky defensive opening, and Guatemala briefly appeared to score before the goal was ruled out for offside. Davies’ injury clouds an otherwise strong start, while Guatemala has troubled Canada in recent tournament meetings.

State of Play
  • Ralph Priso replaced Davies.
  • Canada’s three goals came from Oluwaseyi, Millar and David.
  • The winner of the quarterfinal earns a place in the Nations League Finals and a berth in the 2027 Gold Cup.
What's Next

Canada must protect its advantage in the second leg in Toronto, with Davies’ availability uncertain. The series winner advances to the Nations League Finals in March.

Bottom Line

Canada delivered the response it needed after a nervous opening, but Davies’ injury could reshape the tie—and the team’s plans—just as its new cycle begins.