WITH just the game against Fiji in the FANCA Nations World Cup, Canada have already shown they are a fierce competitor.
Against a side boasting district and national-level players, Canada sent a clear message that Canadian football has the talent, character and desire to compete at this level.
The 2001 and 2018 FANCA Nations World Cup champions matched Fiji for quality and, at times, made them look ordinary.
The 1-0 defeat hardly reflected the quality of football Canada produced, particularly on a playing surface that was far from ideal.
Coach Nick Soosma said given the field conditions the team put in an encouraging performance, and he is proud of the efforts of his players.
“We played great game, we had created good opportunities, a tie was more deserving but in soccer sometimes you don’t score on chances you lose the game,” he said.
“Bumpy field, yet it was good to see players control and move the ball around, unlucky to score.”
Now, with New Zealand next on the agenda, Canada must maintain its composure and get the little things right.
Fiji sits firmly at the top with maximum points and has already secured its place in the final.
That leaves Canada and New Zealand with everything to play for, and with the tournament format, a loss to either sides would again set them up for a semifinal showdown.
For Canada needs to remain focused, and earn the right to challenge Fiji, again in the championship game.
