Canadian Men’s Soccer Team Achieves Historic Wins in Europe

The Canadian men’s national soccer team has made history by securing back-to-back victories against European opponents for the first time. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Canada has been actively preparing through a series of friendlies in Europe. The team’s journey included a commanding 3-0 win over Romania followed by a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Wales.

These two wins are significant milestones, marking the first time since the program’s inception in 1912 that Canada has defeated two teams from the UEFA region in consecutive matches. The victories also highlight Canada’s return to form after a disappointing exit from the Gold Cup earlier this year.

Historic Wins and Player Highlights

The Canadian squad entered the games ranked 28th in the FIFA rankings, ahead of Romania at 48th and Wales at 31st. The win against Romania was particularly noteworthy as it was Canada’s first victory on European soil since 2011, when they defeated Belarus in Turkey. This match was also the first-ever encounter between Canada and Romania.

In the match against Romania, Ali Ahmed played a pivotal role, scoring his first international goal and assisting teammate Jonathan David for another. In the subsequent match against Wales, Derek Cornelius netted the winning goal, securing a memorable triumph for Canada. The last time Canada faced Wales was in May 1986, where they emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline at Toronto’s Varsity Stadium.

Both matches showcased the strength of Canadian goalkeeping, with Maxime Crepeau and Dayne St. Clair recording clean sheets, ensuring that no goals were conceded in either match. This defensive performance is a significant boost for the team as they look ahead to the World Cup.

Looking Ahead

As the Canadian men’s national team prepares for their next match against Australia on October 10, 2025 in Montreal, these victories will serve as a valuable foundation. The team’s recent success in Europe not only enhances their confidence but also signifies their growing presence on the international stage.

The accomplishments in Romania and Wales mark a turning point for Canadian soccer, as the team continues to build momentum ahead of the World Cup. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this historic period unfolds in the coming months.