FIFA World Cup 2026: Why did Alphonso Davies not start in Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina opener? Check details

Canada kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on home soil with plenty of hope and expectation. Facing Bosnia and Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium on June 12, the co-hosts wanted a positive start in front of passionate fans. Yet one big name was missing from the starting XI, and his absence was impossible to ignore.

Alphonso Davies, the Bayern Munich fullback and Canadian captain, did not feature against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Four years ago he wrote his name into history by scoring Canada’s first-ever World Cup goal just two minutes into their opening match in Qatar. This time, on home turf, he is watching from the sidelines as his team tries to build momentum without him.

Why was Alphonso Davies ruled out of the Playing XI?

Alphonso Davies is still recovering from a hamstring injury and is not fit enough for full minutes. He picked up the problem in the second leg of Bayern Munich’s UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. Although he was named in Canada’s World Cup squad and included in the matchday group, he was not expected to take the field.

The injury has limited his international game time in recent months. Davies has managed just two appearances in Canada’s last 21 matches because of ongoing fitness issues. For a player who brings pace, attacking threat, and leadership from the left-back position, sitting out the opener was a tough blow for both him and the team.

Coach Jesse Marsch gives injury update

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch spoke openly before the game about the situation. “We did an MRI yesterday. He’s healing incredibly well, but not at 100 per cent just yet,” he said. Marsch stressed that while the opening match carried huge importance, the team could not afford to rush their star player back.

“I think we understand how important the first game is. But we understand recovery is always an important thing." The message was clear: protecting Davies’ long-term health matters more than forcing him into early action.

What it means for Canada going forward

Canada will need other players to step up and fill the gap left by their captain. Alphonso Davies’ speed and ability to push forward have long been key parts of their attacking plan. Without him, the team must find new ways to create chances on the left side while staying solid at the back.

The positive news is that the latest MRI showed good healing progress. With careful management, Davies could return for later group games. For now, the focus stays on the collective effort and using home support to get a result against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Canada Starting lineup (4-4-2)

Goalkeeper: Maxime Crepeau

Defenders: Alistair Johnston, Luc DE Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea

Midfielders: Stephen Eustaquio (C), Ismael Kone, Liam Millar

Forwards: Jonathan David, Tani Oluwaseyi, Tajon Buchanan

(More to follow)