Canada back at the World Cup

Canada meet Belgium on 23 November 2022 at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan

Canada return to the FIFA World Cup finals for the first time in 36 years with an opening Group F fixture against 2018 semi-finalists Belgium in Al Rayyan’s Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium. Belgium, seeking a first major international title, are making their 14th appearance at the global finals.

Ever-presents from 1982-2002, they returned for the two most recent tournaments, in Brazil – where they were quarter-finalists – and Russia – where they finished third, registering their highest ever placing.

Canada, the FIFA World Cup 2026 co-hosts, booked their place in Qatar by successfully coming through 20 qualifying fixtures as Concacaf’s top team. They will be looking to make a positive impression in Qatar in what is their second participation in FIFA World Cup history.

Belgium have not lost their opening match in their last six World Cup appearances (W4 D2). The last time they lost their opener was in 1986 against Mexico.

Unbeaten in their last 12 group-stage matches at the FIFA World Cup (W7 D5), Belgium have won seven in a row heading into this tournament. Remarkably, their last group-stage defeat was all the way back in 1994 (0-1 v. Saudi Arabia).

Canada are participating in their second FIFA World Cup, 36 years after their debut appearance at the finals in 1986.

Canada coach John Herdman is the first person to coach a team at both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup. He coached both New Zealand and Canada previously at the FIFA Women’s World Cup™.

Canada’s Atiba Hutchinson is the oldest outfield player at Qatar 2022. He was 39 years and 285 days old at the start of the tournament.

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