<p>More information regarding Team Canada’s use of drones is now surfacing. The Canada women’s national team was <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/canada-coach-to-miss-olympics-opener-amid-spying-controversy/">recently accused</a> of flying a drone over New Zealand’s practice on multiple occasions in recent days. The drone operator and an assistant coach both immediately departed the team. </p>



<p>Canada’s head coach, Beverly Priestman, also voluntarily decided not to be on the sidelines for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/olympics-soccer-schedule-and-tv-guide/">2024 Olympics</a> matchup with New Zealand. The two teams faced off on Thursday, with Canada edging their opponents by a score of 2-1. Ahead of the fixture, New Zealand soccer officials <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/olympics/new-zealand-asks-fifa-to-punish-canada-after-spying-incidents/">called on</a> FIFA to punish Canada for their actions.</p>



<p>The story, however, only got worse for Canada on Friday. Canada Soccer has now admitted that both their men’s and women’s teams have used drones to spy on opposing teams in the past. The organization’s CEO and general secretary Kevin Blue made the revelation.</p>



<p>“I learned that there was an incident [of drones in use by Canada at Copa America],” Blue told members of the press on a virtual press conference. The exec went on to claim that Jesse Marsch, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/canada-national-team-tv-schedule/">Canada</a> men’s national team manager, apparently found out about drone usage and condemned it.</p>



<p>“[Marsch] was aware of it after the fact, at a minimum,” continued Blue. “Marsch explained to me that he denounced it immediately and forcefully, and has communicated that to his staff. As we get into this review process, we’ll have a better understanding of the specifics and details around that. The players themselves have not been involved in any unethical behavior.”</p>



<p>Canada surprised many soccer fans by making it to the semifinals of Copa America 2024. Led by Marsch, the Canadians finished second in Group A behind Argentina and topped <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/venezuela-national-team-tv-schedule/">Venezuela</a> in the round of 16. They eventually fell on penalties to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/uruguay-national-team-tv-schedule/">Uruguay</a> in the third-place game.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240726_WST_518648_Marsch-drones-1200x675_3147fa64.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-518691" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Marsch-drones-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Marsch-drones-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Marsch-drones-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Marsch-drones-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/07/Marsch-drones.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Report says Canada has been using drones for years, including Copa America</h2>



<p>The announcement by Canada Soccer comes after a scathing report by a prominent Canadian news outlet. <em><a href="https://www.tsn.ca/canada-s-men-s-and-women-s-soccer-teams-have-relied-on-drones-and-spying-for-years-sources-say-1.2153674" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TSN</a></em> reported late Thursday that Canada’s men’s and women’s teams have also spied on rivals using drones for years. Sources at the company claim that drones were in use during the 2021 Olympics with the women’s team. Canada collected their first major non-CONCACAF tournament title at the time.</p>



<p>Following the 2021 Olympics, the Canada women’s team also allegedly spied on Panama’s practice a year later. The two teams faced off at the time as the Canucks were trying to qualify for the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Canada went on to win the match by a slim score of 1-0.</p>



<p>On the men’s side, the aforementioned report states that Canada flew a drone over a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/usmnt-tv-schedule/">USMNT</a> practice in November of 2019. Despite the spying, the Americans eventually thumped Canada 4-1 in the ensuing matchup. Canada then also used drones to spy on Honduras two years later as well. The Central Americans, however, noticed the drone and shut down the training session in Toronto.</p>



<h2>Priestman forced to step away from Olympics by Canada Soccer</h2>



<p>The <em>TSN</em> report essentially triggered Canada Soccer to officially remove Priestman from the team. “Over the past 24 hours, additional information has come to our attention regarding previous drone use against opponents, predating the Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” <a href="https://olympic.ca/press/coc-statement-regarding-bev-priestman/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> Blue.</p>



<p>“In light of these new revelations, Canada Soccer has made the decision to suspend women’s national soccer team head coach, Bev Priestman for the remainder of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, and until the completion of our recently announced independent external review.”</p>



<p>As a result, assistant coach Andy Spence has now taken over at the helm. Spence will lead Canada’s women’s team for the remainder of the tournament. After topping New Zealand, Canada faces host France on Sunday, July 28. The winner of the fixture will book a place in the quarterfinals of the competition.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>

Canada Soccer admits use of drones to spy at Copa America

Canada Soccer has announced that both their men's and women's teams have used drones to spy on opposing teams, including in the Copa America.

<p>John Herdman has said that he ought to have resigned as coach of the Canadian national team before the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.</p>



<p>In March of 2022, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/herdman-leaves-canada-role-to-manage-mls-club-toronto-20230829-WST-452658.html">Herdman</a> led <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/canada-national-team-tv-schedule/">Canada</a> to their first <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-tv-schedule/">World Cup</a> qualification in 36 years. However, he experienced a personal tragedy about which few knew. The Canadian soccer coach does not seem to have had a picnic.</p>



<p>With his outstanding contribution to Canada’s Olympic success, Herdman has been a boon to the country’s soccer scene. He has propelled the men’s and women’s teams to unprecedented heights. Soccer in the North American country will never be the same thanks to Herdman.</p>



<p>Yet, despite being a crucial figure in his own right, has had his fair share of problems on his path. The 48-year-old recently discussed the difficulties of coaching at the top level in a podcast, where he opened up about his troubles.</p>



<h2>What did Herdman say about his personal struggles?</h2>



<p>Before the 2022 World Cup, the famous coach was already vulnerable due to the death of a close relative—an additional burden. A devastating turn occurred in Herdman’s life last May when his sister Nicola took her own life.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20231213_WST_476974_John-Herdman-Canada-1200x675_d539e3ab.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-477071" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/John-Herdman-Canada-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/John-Herdman-Canada-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/John-Herdman-Canada-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/John-Herdman-Canada.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Herdman said told <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/sports/app-pov/player-s-own-voice-podcast-transcript-john-herdman-1.7051835" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">POV Podcast</a> that he should have resigned from his coaching role sooner and shared an honest moment about his issues. He felt he could not help his sister as much as he would have liked, which made him question his ability to go on professionally.</p>



<p>“I had just lost my sister to suicide, and it really, really hurt and it was for a period of time. I’ve never been hurt like that. I’d always been the fixer in my family, and I couldn’t fix it. So, coming out with World Cup qualification, it was like the highest high, then down to the worst experience that I had in my life.</p>



<p>“I had a decision to make in June [2022] and I went against my instinct … I shouldn’t have went. She’d reached out for help when I was at the Gold Cup [in 2021]. And I didn’t help in the way I could have.”</p>



<h2>How did situation affect Herdman?</h2>



<p>Preparation for Canada’s first World Cup since 1986 was fraught with difficulties, on top of Herdman’s personal problems. In June 2022, the Reds postponed a friendly match against Iran. It was in response to calls from the relatives of Canadians killed in an Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps-shot down Ukrainian aircraft in 2020.</p>



<p>In its substitute, the federation scheduled a game against Panama. That match, too, was postponed a few hours before the start because of a contract disagreement between the players and Canada Soccer.</p>



<p>The organizational problems within the squad made Herdman’s personal loss much worse. Eventually, the current Toronto FC boss stayed with the team despite these obstacles.</p>



<p>“I knew Canada, from an organizational perspective, we weren’t ready. We weren’t ready,” Herdman recalled. “And the players? You know, when you see what happened in June the ‘me’ had already shifted. The ‘we’ had gone to ‘me’.</p>



<p>“I didn’t need it, I felt my job was done, on the qualification. I did not need that World Cup, I don’t know if I wanted it, either.”</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>

Personal tragedy makes ex-Canada coach regret World Cup trip

John Herdman has said that he ought to have resigned as coach of the Canadian national team before the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.


<p>John Herdman has left his role as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/canada-national-team-tv-schedule/">Canada’s national team</a> manager to become the new head coach of Toronto FC. Herdman will, however, continue helping Canada during the transitional period over the next month. The 48-year-old coach will then officially take over at Toronto on Oct. 1.</p>



<h2>Herdman claims time was right to take Toronto job</h2>



<p>“I am keen to start this new opportunity with Toronto FC,” <a href="https://www.torontofc.ca/news/toronto-fc-name-john-herdman-as-head-coach" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proclaimed</a> Herdman during the announcement. “Personally, it’s the right time for me to step into a new challenge in my career, and the structure of a club environment is a context I’ve aspired to operate in. Having access to connect and collaborate with the staff and players daily allows for a different depth of development and connection, both on and off the pitch.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">John Herdman Departs Canada Soccer<br>Men’s National Team.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CANMNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CANMNT</a></p>— Canada Soccer (@CanadaSoccerEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/CanadaSoccerEN/status/1696235949179412511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p>Herdman also discussed the easy move to the Canadian <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a> side. </p>



<p>“To continue my coaching journey in a Canadian city that I know well, playing at BMO Field – a stadium where I’ve experienced some of my favorite sporting moments, with incredible fans, is quite amazing,” <a href="https://www.torontofc.ca/news/toronto-fc-name-john-herdman-as-head-coach" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continued</a> the coach.</p>



<p>The English manager was previously named head coach of the Canada men’s national team back in 2018. Along with his role as manager of the senior squad, Herdman also ran the youth setup. Under Herdman’s guidance, Canada reached as high as No. 33 in the world by FIFA, the team’s highest-ever ranking. They also qualified for their first World Cup in 36 years during the 2022 tournament in Qatar.</p>



<h5>Assistant promoted to Canada interim boss</h5>



<p>Terry Dunfield was previously named interim Toronto head coach following the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/toronto-fc-sacks-bob-bradley-after-one-win-in-11-games-20230626-WST-439494.html">firing of Bob Bradley</a> in late June. Nevertheless, the switch has not yielded better results for the club. Dunfield has not yet collected a victory with the team in eight total matches. Toronto has only managed to score in one of these games.</p>



<p>With Herdman on the way out, Canada has promoted Mauro Biello to the role of interim head coach. The former Montreal Impact star has been an assistant under Herdman over the last five years. Canada’s next fixture is against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/japan-national-team-tv-schedule/">Japan</a> on Oct. 13.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Agencia-MexSport</em></p>


Herdman leaves Canada role to manage MLS club Toronto

John Herdman has been named manager of Major League Soccer side Toronto FC after leaving his position with the Canada men's national team.

destacadas


<p>Toronto FC may not be looking far geographically for its next manager, as John Herdman is a potential name. The current Canada Men’s National Team head coach has had introductory discussions with the Canadian club. Currently, Terry Dunfield is serving as manager of Toronto FC after the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/toronto-fc-sacks-bob-bradley-after-one-win-in-11-games-20230626-WST-439494.html">club sacked Bob Bradley</a> this summer.</p>



<p>According to <em><a href="https://theathletic.com/4776015/2023/08/14/toronto-fc-john-herdman-coach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Athletic</a></em>, the head coach has had informal talks with Toronto FC. Toronto FC informed the coach what the job entails, but a formal interview process has yet to begin. Reports indicate that Herdman’s current contract with Canada Soccer extends through the 2026 World Cup. However, Herdman’s criticism of the Canadian Federation could be one factor pointing him toward a new position.</p>



<p>The conversations would likely mean Herdman has some level of interest in the job. He is not alone in Toronto FC’s hunt for a new manager, though. The Athletic named the likes of Bobby Smyrniotis of Forge FC in the Canadian Premier League and D.C. United assistant Carl Robinson are also in the running.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Any truth to the reports that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CanMNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CanMNT</a> manager John Herdman is an option for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TFClive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TFClive</a> head coach job? 🙋‍♂️<br><br>Here&apos;s what <a href="https://twitter.com/GarethWheeler?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GarethWheeler</a> is hearing, inc. how close Herdman is to joining TFC, Mark Warburton as an option, and Bobby Smyrniotis 👀<br><br>WATCH ▶️<a href="https://t.co/EqsgRzAFcq">https://t.co/EqsgRzAFcq</a> <a href="https://t.co/iV1rYRT0RZ">pic.twitter.com/iV1rYRT0RZ</a></p>— OneSoccer (@onesoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/onesoccer/status/1691512875657900032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Herdman can help Toronto FC like he did Canada</h2>



<p>Toronto FC needs a major overhaul with its next head coach. Not only is it arguably the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-ranked-29th-strongest-league-in-the-world-per-opta-20230815-WST-450215.html">worst club</a> in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a>, but it has the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-d2bb2e3ba0f59ebc8732e4159de30b4b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">highest payroll in the league</a>. Currently, with the fewest points earned per game, Toronto FC has been struggling for some time. The club finished second-to-last in the Eastern Conference each of the last two seasons.</p>



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<p>Herdman could be someone to turn it around. After all, he did so with the Canada Men’s National Team. Under Herdman’s management, Canada climbed up the FIFA World Rankings via strong performances. Then, Canada reached its first World Cup in 36 years by qualifying for Qatar 2022. Even though the Canadians lost each of their three games at the tournament, it was a step in the right direction.</p>



<p>Recent comments have soured the relationship between the two. Herdman, clearly passionate about the future success of Canadian soccer, voiced his opposition to the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/canada-coach-says-federation-is-not-serious-about-world-cup-20230619-WST-438544.html">federation’s lack of preparation</a> in its golden generation. These talks with Toronto FC are just that, talks. However, there is reason to believe they could materialize.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Agencia-MexSport</em></p>


Toronto FC holds informal talks Canada coach John Herdman

Toronto FC may not be looking far geographically for its next manager, as John Herdman is a potential name to take over.


<p>John Herdman, the head coach of the Canada National Team, is frustrated with his own Federation ahead of the 2026 World Cup that the nation is co-hosting. Following a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/usmnt-defeats-canada-to-win-second-nations-league-title-20230619-WST-438494.html">Nations League Final loss against the United States</a>, Herdman vented some of his frustrations to the media. </p>



<p>With a talented squad that includes top talents like Alphonso Davies, Tajon Buchanan, Jonathan David and more, Herdman says the time to truly focus is now.</p>



<p>“We’ve got to get serious about winning a World Cup,” Herdman said. “When you play [a World Cup] at home, you get a chance to win it. You get a chance to get to a quarterfinal, a semifinal, and then get on that roll to win it. And we’re not serious. We brought a World Cup to our country and we’re not serious about winning it.”</p>



<p>Specifically, Herdman was most upset with the financial side of things in the Canadian Soccer Association. Herdman says there is a chance the squad may not have a training camp in September due to a lack of funding. </p>



<p>“I think it’s not a secret the organization has been suffering financially even through the World Cup qualification. You had coaches raising money to make sure we’ve got charter flights, security on those charter flights.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Full transcript of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CanMNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CanMNT</a> coach John Herdman&apos;s comments in response to <a href="https://twitter.com/ByDougMcIntyre?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ByDougMcIntyre</a> &apos;s question about funding: <a href="https://t.co/Wi1scGT4F9">https://t.co/Wi1scGT4F9</a> <a href="https://t.co/C1W0HBjQ5b">pic.twitter.com/C1W0HBjQ5b</a></p>— Jake Fenner (@jakefenner_) <a href="https://twitter.com/jakefenner_/status/1670648612009697281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Herdman led Canada to first World Cup in over 30 years</h2>



<p>In that World Cup qualification, Canada finished top of the group. It was above Mexico, the United States and Costa Rica as it reached the World Cup for just the second time. Even if Canada lost each of its games at the World Cup, it was a massive step in the right direction to get to that stage. Much of that is thanks to the current crop Herdman has at his disposal. So many of those are young talents that can still develop.</p>



<p>“You know, we’ve got the best generation of players we’ve had. And there’s more coming, you can see it. [Ismael] Kone just dropped out the sky. Tajon Buchanan just dropped out the sky, Alistair Johnson, like it’s coming.”</p>



<p>While Herdman has been the head coach of the men’s side, Canada shot up the FIFA World Ranking. At the time of his takeover in January 2018, Canada ranked No. 95 in the world. Currently, <a href="https://www.fifa.com/fifa-world-ranking/men?dateId=id13974">it is No. 47</a>, but it did reach as high as No. 33 in February 2022. A disappointing World Cup did not help its cause. </p>



<p>Still, despite losing to the USMNT on Sunday night, the potential is there for the side to grow. Herdman wants more involvement and action from his Federation ahead of the country’s biggest World Cup to date.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Agencia-MexSport</em></p>


John Herdman, the head coach of the Canada Men's National Team, is frustrated with his own Federation ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Canada coach says Federation is not serious about World Cup


<p>Canada made an announcement on head coach John Herdman that refuted earlier reports. Earlier on Wednesday, <em><a href="https:\/\/www.newshub.co.nz/home/sport/2023/02/football-canada-s-john-herdman-emerges-as-leading-candidate-for-all-whites-head-coaching-role.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Newshub</a></em> reported the 47-year-old head coach switched allegiances. The story claimed he would be taking over the same role with New Zealand.</p>



<p>Earlier in his coaching career, Herdman worked with the women’s national team in New Zealand from 2003 to 2011. He was the head coach for the final five years of that tenure. </p>



<p>However, Canada’s official twitter account published a quote from Herdman. It clearly demonstrated Herdman’s intent to stay with the Canada Men’s National Team after he helped the side reach its first World Cup since 1986. It was Canada’s second trip to the tournament in its history.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A statement from Canada Soccer&apos;s Men&apos;s National Team Head Coach John Herdman 🍁 <a href="https:\/\/t.co/Qnung905Hj">pic.twitter.com/Qnung905Hj</a></p>— Canada Soccer (@CanadaSoccerEN) <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/CanadaSoccerEN/status/1620857717668864002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https:\/\/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h5>New Zealand had a head coach lined up</h5>



<p>New Zealand’s soccer association announced that it had a frontrunner lined up. In an official statement that laid out a pair of friendlies to start off the 2026 World Cup cycle, New Zealand said Darren Bazeley would coach the side in those friendlies.</p>



<p>“The leading candidate for the permanent All Whites head coach role had to be called upon to help manage a family health issue, meaning they weren’t able to take up the position ahead of these fixtures,” read an official <a href="https:\/\/www.nzfootball.co.nz/newsarticle/124254?newsfeedId=1275622" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statement</a> on the ordeal.</p>



<p>However, Herdman maintained that he is not that candidate. New Zealand did reach out to the coach to question him for his services. However, the coach is “not going anywhere.”</p>



<p>Herdman is under contract through the 2026 World Cup, for which Canada is a co-host.</p>



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="How John Herdman&apos;s Upbringing Shaped Him In Soccer And Life | Consett to Qatar: Episode 1" width="500" height="281" src="https:\/\/www.youtube.com/embed/vHMTGVCgBmY?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<h2>John Herdman took Canada to 2022 World Cup</h2>



<p>Herdman made <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/news/croatia-newspaper-attacks-canada-world-cup-coach-20221125-WST-409953.html">headlines</a> at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for interesting comments regarding Croatia. The coach spoke to reporters after a narrow defeat to Belgium and admitted that he told his players that they would “go and F Croatia” in their next match. Canada would, however, lose the match to Croatia 4-1.</p>



<p>Regardless, it was a success to get Canada back to the competition even if it picked up zero points. Canada did score its first-ever goal at a World Cup. Fittingly, it was star man Alphonso Davies to get on the scoresheet. </p>



<p>He looks to lead the side as it is a co-host for the 2026 World Cup. </p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / PA Images</em></p>


Canada head coach John Herdman had links with the New Zealand job, but he snuffed those out and stated his intent to stay with Canada.

John Herdman announces stay as head coach for Canada


<p>Andrej Kramaric scored a fine brace as Croatia overturned an early deficit to eliminate Canada from the World Cup at the Khalifa International stadium on Sunday evening.</p>



<p>Alphonso Davies gave the North American nation a dream start with a thumping header from Tajon Buchanan’s cross from the right wing with only 68 seconds played.</p>



<h5>Croatia turn it around</h5>



<p>However, Croatia calmed their nerves and grew into the game dominating possession with Kramaric restoring parity in the 36<sup>th</sup> minute following Ivan Perisic’s fine left wing cross. The Hoffenheim midfielder earlier had a goal called off through offside. &nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Two goals in eight minutes for Croatia ⚽️⚽️<br><br>Here is another look at Marko Livaja&apos;s strike ⬇️ <a href="https:\/\/t.co/sotX8qs63e">pic.twitter.com/sotX8qs63e</a></p>— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1596909116521422850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https:\/\/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p>Right on the stroke of half time, Marko Livaja gave the 2018 World Cup runners up a deserved lead with a thumping strike on the edge of the penalty box. Canada looked second best on the pitch and Davies’ opener was a thing of the past. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Both teams had chances to score after the break but the gulf in class was clear between the two sides. It was no surprise that the Croats had the lion share of the ball making the Canadians work extremely hard off the ball.</p>



<p>Kramaric scored his second of the night in the 70<sup>th</sup> minute, once again after being fed by Perisic. It was the 31-year-old last contribution of the game being replaced by Torino midfielder Nikola Vlasic. </p>



<p>Lovro Majer completed the rout in the 94<sup>th</sup> minute after Canadian defender Kamal Miller fluffed his lines. Substitute Mislav Orsic got hold off the loose ball and with only the goalkeeper to beat played it on the path of Majer who slotted home with aplomb.</p>



<h5>Pre-match controversy answered</h5>



<p>Much of the pre match talk centered around Canada head coach John Herdman’s controversial statement after their 1-0 loss to Belgium in their opening game, “I told them (players) they belong here. And we’re going to go and f*ck Croatia. That’s as simple as it gets.”</p>



<p>The Croatian media outlet ‘24 Sata’<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/news/mood-in-croatia-ahead-of-canada-clash-20221126-WST-410059.html"> responded</a> saying, “You have a big tongue but do you have the balls?”</p>



<p>Croatia currently top Group F on goal difference with 4 points, the same as Morocco <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/news/morocco-looks-potent-in-2-0-win-over-belgium-20221127-WST-410195.html">who stunned</a> Belgium 2-0 earlier in the day.</p>



<p> The Croats will face Belgium in their final group game on Thursday, the latter who need a win to qualify for the knockout stages. </p>



<p><em>Photo credit: IMAGO / Pro Sports Images</em></p>



<div style="background:#f9e4ea;padding:10px;">
<h3>Guide to World Cup 2022</h3>
<div style="padding:10px;">
Here are some resources to help you get the most out of the biggest event in soccer!
</div>
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<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-tv-schedule/"><strong>TV Schedule:</strong></a> All the info on <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-tv-schedule/">where and when to watch</a> every game
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/04/analysis-of-world-cup-groups/"><strong>The Groups:</strong></a> We <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/04/analysis-of-world-cup-groups/">breakdown each group</a> and all the teams
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-jerseys-for-qatar-2022/"><strong>The Kits:</strong></a> Check out <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-jerseys-for-qatar-2022/">what every team will be wearing</a> on the field this fall
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/predictor/"><strong>Predictor:</strong></a> Play out every scenario with our <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/predictor/">World Cup Predictor</a>
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/05/world-cup-bracket-free-download/"><strong>World Cup Bracket:</strong></a> Map out the <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/05/world-cup-bracket-free-download/">entire tournament</a>, from the groups to the final
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/category/world-cup-2022/"><strong>World Cup Hub:</strong></a> Your one stop for <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/category/world-cup-2022/">everything Qatar 2022</a>
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Croatia thrashed Canada 4-1 to eliminate the North American side from the World Cup and put qualification from group F in their own hands

Croatia send Canada out of the World Cup - World Soccer Talk

Croatia send Canada out of the World Cup


<p><a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/nations/canada-national-team-tv-schedule/">Canada</a> head coach John Herdman made headlines following his team’s <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/news/belgium-edges-canada-as-underdogs-fail-to-convert-chances-20221123-WST-409729.html">1-0 defeat to Belgium</a> on Wednesday, headlines a Croatia newspaper jumped on. The Canadians played very well against one of the <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/category/world-cup-2022/">World Cup</a> favorites, but failed to collect any points on the night. Herdman also made an interesting speech to his players following the game.</p>



<p>The coach was then interviewed and asked what he told his team following the disappointing defeat. “I told them they belong here. And we’re going to go and F Croatia,” said Herdman. “That’s as simple as it gets.”</p>



<p>Herdman’s comments obviously did not go down well in Croatia. 24sata, a daily newspaper in the country’s capital of Zagreb, put the Canadian coach on the front page in interesting style. Alongside a mock photo of Herdman, the headline reads: “You have the mouth but do you have the balls as well?”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/hashtag/CRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CRO</a> newspaper targets <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/hashtag/CAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CAN</a> coach John Herdman after he said "We&apos;re going to go &amp; F*** Croatia"<br><br>His words came after <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/hashtag/BEL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BEL</a> loss where he shared what he told his team in post-match huddle <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/hashtag/HSV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HSV</a> <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/hashtag/WeCAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeCAN</a> <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/hashtag/CROCAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CROCAN</a> <br><br>Headline reads "You have the mouth but do you have the balls as well?" <a href="https:\/\/t.co/L5aFnZnbKd">pic.twitter.com/L5aFnZnbKd</a></p>— World Soccer Talk (@worldsoccertalk) <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/worldsoccertalk/status/1596132306527338500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2022</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https:\/\/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p>Following the backlash, Herdman clarified his comments. “I mean, you say those things in an impassioned moment trying to inspire your team in a huddle,” <a href="https:\/\/www.tsn.ca/fifa-world-cup/john-herdman-croatia-comment-canada-fifa-world-cup-qatar-1.1883338" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> Herdman. “And when you’re asked a question ‘What did you say in that huddle?’ It’s what I said. It’s not massively respectful to Croatian people and the Croatian national team.”</p>



<p>“I understand very well where we’re at on the world stage, but in that moment you enter that next place, you take your team to that next place that we’re here to be fearless and to bring everything we’ve got to that game.”</p>



<h2>Canada manager means no disrespect towards Croatia after newspaper headline</h2>



<p>Herdman insisted that he meant no harm or disrespect with his comments, but also claimed that this is the mindset his team needs.</p>



<p>“I mean no disrespect to the Croatian team and Croatian people, but at the end of the day it’s a mindset that Canada is going to have if we’re going to have three points against one of the top teams in the world,” Herdman continued. “And it’s the mindset we took to Belgium. We have to; it’s part of ‘New Canada.’”</p>



<p>Canada and <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/nations/croatia-national-team-tv-schedule/">Croatia</a> face off on Sunday, November 27th. The contest already had predictions of significance. Now, there is even more reason to watch.</p>



<div style="background:#f9e4ea;padding:10px;">
<h3>Guide to World Cup 2022</h3>
<div style="padding:10px;">
Here are some resources to help you get the most out of the biggest event in soccer!
</div>
<div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-tv-schedule/"><strong>TV Schedule:</strong></a> All the info on <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-tv-schedule/">where and when to watch</a> every game
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/04/analysis-of-world-cup-groups/"><strong>The Groups:</strong></a> We <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/04/analysis-of-world-cup-groups/">breakdown each group</a> and all the teams
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-jerseys-for-qatar-2022/"><strong>The Kits:</strong></a> Check out <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-jerseys-for-qatar-2022/">what every team will be wearing</a> on the field this fall
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/predictor/"><strong>Predictor:</strong></a> Play out every scenario with our <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/predictor/">World Cup Predictor</a>
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/05/world-cup-bracket-free-download/"><strong>World Cup Bracket:</strong></a> Map out the <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/05/world-cup-bracket-free-download/">entire tournament</a>, from the groups to the final
</div><div style="padding:10px;">
<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/category/world-cup-2022/"><strong>World Cup Hub:</strong></a> Your one stop for <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/category/world-cup-2022/">everything Qatar 2022</a>
</div>
</div>


Canada head coach John Herdman was asked to clarify his interesting comments about facing Croatia on Sunday that went viral in a newspaper.

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