Canada and the United States might be disappointed to compete in the Concacaf Nations League third-place game instead of the final. However, this match is significant for both Mauricio Pochettino and Jesse Marsch. It provides them with a valuable opportunity to demonstrate progress after their defeats, while still facing strong opposition. This is particularly important in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, as both nations are not involved in World Cup qualifying.
Although a trophy is not at stake, both teams have strong motivation to perform at their best. Every match performance is crucial for players aiming to secure a spot on the World Cup roster, especially with some players unavailable for the Gold Cup in the summer due to Club World Cup commitments.
These two teams have a recent history, facing each other twice in 2023, with the United States winning one match and drawing the other, and once in 2024, where Canada secured a friendly win. The absence of Antonee Robinson will pose a greater challenge for the USMNT. However, these are precisely the kind of challenges that reveal which players are suitable for Pochettino`s squad.
How to Watch and Odds
- Date: Sunday, March 23
- Location: SoFi Stadium — Inglewood, California
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Canada +225; Draw +230; USMNT +114
Storylines
USMNT: Following their inability to capitalize on opportunities against Panama, the USMNT needs to take an aggressive attacking approach, or Canada`s offensive players will punish them. Pochettino`s attack lacked a scoring touch in the previous game. The manager mentioned on Saturday that, `The issue was this lack of scoring. I believe the discipline was present. The game plan, I think they adhered to it. They attempted to do everything. I cannot fault their effort – they tried. They ran, they put in the work, but ultimately, it comes down to being truly aggressive and competitive.`
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Introducing a player into the lineup capable of challenging defenses through dribbling could be essential against Canada. Diego Luna or Gio Reyna could fit this role, with the choice depending on their training performance. Reyna, facing limited playtime at Dortmund, still needs to prove his place in the starting XI in his first camp under Pochettino. Whether it`s Reyna or another player, unlocking a new dimension in the USMNT attack is vital.
USMNT predicted XI: Matt Turner, Max Arftsen, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Joe Scally, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Diego Luna, Christian Pulisic, Josh Sargent, Tim Weah
Canada: While Canada has shown strong performances as one of Concacaf`s top teams, defeating the United States is crucial for solidifying their status as a leading team in the region. Similar to the USMNT, many of their key players are now in prominent European leagues. These matches are critical, especially after a disappointing 2022 World Cup. Marsch needs to demonstrate that this team is different this time around. If Canada can build upon a strong Copa America showing by defeating the United States, it could signal a real shift in regional dominance.
Canada predicted XI: Dayne St. Clair, Alphonso Davies, Derek Cornelius, Moise Bombito, Alistair Johnston, Ismael Kone, Stephen Eustaquio, Jonathan Osorio, Jonathan David, Ali Ahmed, Cyle Larin
Prediction
In a closely contested match, the USMNT`s greater squad depth will be an advantage, providing them with just enough to secure a late victory. Pick: USMNT 2, Canada 1
