Canada have suffered a significant setback ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match, with captain and Bayern Munich wing-back Alphonso Davies confirmed as unavailable for Friday's clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Davies sustained a strain to his right hamstring during Bayern Munich's UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain in May, and has been working against the clock to recover ever since. Head coach Jesse Marsch has now confirmed that the full-back will also likely miss Canada's second group fixture, compounding the blow for the host nation.

Extra weight on David's shoulders

Marsch revealed that Davies has been working with a private physiotherapist and remains hopeful that his skipper will make a contribution at some point during the tournament. Speaking to CBC, the American coach said: "We're going to have to manage the group phase and get out. I think [Davies] can be ready for sure once we get out of the group. And I think if we're smart, and good, and careful, that he can be ready for the third match in the group as well."

With Davies absent, the spotlight falls squarely on Juventus striker Jonathan David, Canada's all-time leading scorer with 39 international goals. David hit the ground running in Serie A last season — his first after joining Juventus from Lille — netting eight goals throughout the campaign.

The two forwards are widely regarded as Canada's most dangerous weapons, though Marsch does have experienced options elsewhere in the squad. Villarreal midfielder Tajon Buchanan and Celtic defender Alistair Johnston are among the other notable names available.

Canada's path through the group stage

The Canadians open their campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who earned their place at the tournament by eliminating Italy in the qualification play-offs. After that opener, Canada face Qatar on Thursday, June 18, before completing their group-stage schedule against Switzerland on Wednesday, June 24, in Vancouver.

Despite the injury to his key man, Marsch remains confident that Canada can navigate the group stage and advance to the knockout rounds — ideally with Davies back in contention by the final group match.