On Saturday, Canada will face Guatemala in a friendly match at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Scheduled for 7 p.m., this game marks a significant moment for Guatemala as they begin a new chapter under coach Luis Fernando Tena. Although Tena was unable to secure a spot for the team in the 2026 World Cup, he led them close to qualifying by finishing third in their group. In that group, Panama advanced, and Suriname went on to the intercontinental play-off.
Guatemala’s Roster and Challenges
For this match, Tena has called up a squad of 22 players. However, several key players are absent as the match is not scheduled during a FIFA window. Notable names in the Guatemala lineup include:
- Nicolás Samayoa
- Óscar Santis
- Rudy Muñoz
- Jonathan Franco
- José Pinto
- José Morales
- Óscar Castellanos
- Darwin Lom
Additionally, Tena has also included debutants, such as Hector Prillwitz, Marvin Ávila Jr., and Widvin Tebalán.
Canada’s Lineup and Notable Absences
Canada faces similar challenges with their roster. Coach Jesse Marsch has called up players like Jonathan Osorio from Toronto FC. However, Jacob Shaffelburg from LAFC will miss the match due to injury. Meanwhile, Marcelo Flores, who has represented Mexico in the past, is currently navigating a potential switch to the Canadian national team. For him to participate, he needs to file a request with FIFA to change national allegiance.
Marsch commented on the situation, stating, “I thought we could include him to make this feel more like a competitive match. I was mistaken about the regulations.”
Previous Encounters
Historically, matches between Canada and Guatemala have produced exciting outcomes. In the 2025 Gold Cup quarter-finals, Canada faced elimination from Guatemala via a penalty shootout. Their previous friendlies saw Canada win narrowly in 2015 and achieve a significant 3-0 victory in 2009.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 World Cup
Canada is gearing up for the 2026 World Cup, where they will compete in Group B. Their schedule includes:
- June 12: Opponent TBD (possibly European playoff winner, potentially Italy)
- June 18: Match against Qatar
- June 24: Final group stage match versus Switzerland
As the match between Guatemala and Canada approaches, both teams are set to showcase their talents in Los Angeles, signaling the beginning of an important era for each nation.
