TORONTO, Canada — Co-hosts Canada earned the first World Cup point in their history after fighting back to secure a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in their opening Group B match on Friday.
Trailing at halftime after Jovan Lukić headed Bosnia in front in the 21st minute, Canada looked set to begin their home tournament with defeat before substitute Cyle Larin rescued a point with a superb equaliser in the 78th minute. Okay News reports that Larin struck just two minutes after coming off the bench, finishing from inside the penalty area to spark celebrations among the home supporters at Toronto Stadium.
The result marks a significant milestone for Canada, who had never previously earned a point at the FIFA World Cup. Jesse Marsch’s side pushed for a late winner in front of a packed crowd, with Larin coming close again in stoppage time, but Bosnia held on to secure a share of the spoils.
Bosnia and Herzegovina had appeared on course for victory after Lukić’s first-half header, assisted by captain Sead Kolašinac, gave them the lead. However, Canada’s persistence paid off in the closing stages as Promise David helped create the equalising move that allowed Larin to write his name into Canadian football history.
The 1-1 result leaves both nations with a point after their opening Group B fixture, while Canada will take confidence from a performance that delivered a landmark achievement in front of their home fans at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
