On June 12, 2026, a significant moment unfolded in the world of football as both Canada and the United States kicked off their journeys in the FIFA World Cup. However, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made headlines not for his home country’s match but for attending the U.S. game.
Trudeau Attends USMNT’s World Cup Debut
Justin Trudeau, aged 54, was present at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, to watch the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) face Paraguay. This choice meant he missed Canada’s earlier match against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto.
Details of the Matches
- Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina: The match took place at 3 p.m. ET, ending in a 1-1 draw.
- USMNT vs. Paraguay: Scheduled for 9 p.m. ET, the U.S. won decisively with a score of 4-1.
Trudeau’s decision to support the USMNT was influenced by his girlfriend, pop star Katy Perry, who performed at the opening ceremony of the event.
Match Highlights
During the game, the U.S. established a commanding lead of 3-0 in the first half. Folarin Balogun scored twice, and an own goal from Paraguay further contributed to the Americans’ advantage. The U.S. ultimately secured a comfortable victory with a final score of 4-1.
While Trudeau enjoyed the match alongside Perry in a luxury suite, many Canadian fans expressed mixed feelings about their former leader’s attendance at the U.S. debut instead of supporting his country’s team.
The Broader Impact
This incident highlights the intersection of sports, celebrity, and politics. Trudeau’s choice reflects the increasing popularity of football in North America, particularly as the World Cup garners attention from international figures.
As the tournament progresses, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics evolve and whether Trudeau’s decision will influence public sentiment as Canada continues its World Cup journey.
