Canada's 2022 World Cup Squad: Players & Roster

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 48 views

The Canadian national team made a triumphant return to the world stage at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, marking their first appearance in the tournament since 1986. Football fans around the globe were eager to see the squad that would represent Canada with pride and passion. So, who were the players that donned the maple leaf jersey and battled it out on the world's biggest football platform? Let's dive into the full roster and explore the key players who made up this historic team.

Canada's World Cup Roster: A Blend of Experience and Youth

The Canadian squad that competed in the 2022 World Cup was a fascinating mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talents. This blend allowed the team to bring both experience and fresh energy to the pitch. The roster featured players from various leagues around the world, showcasing the growing diversity and talent pool within Canadian soccer.

Goalkeepers: The Last Line of Defense

The goalkeeping position is crucial in any football team, and Canada had a solid trio of shot-stoppers in their squad. These goalkeepers provided assurance and stability at the back, ready to protect the Canadian goal with their skills and reflexes.

Milan Borjan: The veteran goalkeeper and captain of the team, Borjan brought a wealth of experience and leadership to the squad. His commanding presence in the box and shot-stopping ability made him a vital asset for Canada.
Dayne St. Clair: A rising star in the MLS, St. Clair offered a youthful and athletic option in goal. His potential and shot-stopping prowess made him a valuable member of the team.
James Pantemis: Another talented goalkeeper, Pantemis provided depth and competition in the goalkeeping department. His presence ensured that Canada had reliable options in case of injuries or suspensions.

Defenders: The Shield of the Team

A strong defense is the backbone of any successful team, and Canada boasted a resilient defensive unit in their 2022 World Cup squad. These defenders were tasked with protecting their goal, thwarting opposition attacks, and providing a solid foundation for the team's offensive endeavors.

Sam Adekugbe: A dynamic left-back, Adekugbe brought energy and attacking flair to the Canadian defense. His ability to get forward and deliver crosses made him a valuable asset on both ends of the pitch.
Derek Cornelius: A composed and physically imposing center-back, Cornelius provided stability and strength in the heart of the Canadian defense. His aerial ability and tackling prowess made him a formidable opponent for opposing attackers.
Alistair Johnston: A versatile defender, Johnston was capable of playing in multiple positions across the backline. His adaptability and defensive awareness made him a valuable asset for the team.
Richie Laryea: An energetic right-back, Laryea brought pace and attacking intent to the Canadian defense. His ability to overlap and deliver crosses made him a threat in the opposition's half.
Kamal Miller: A solid and reliable center-back, Miller provided stability and composure to the Canadian defense. His reading of the game and tackling ability made him a key member of the team.
Steven Vitoria: A veteran center-back, Vitoria brought experience and leadership to the Canadian defense. His aerial prowess and organizational skills made him a valuable asset in both defensive and offensive set-piece situations.
Joel Waterman: A promising young defender, Waterman offered a composed and skillful option in the backline. His passing ability and defensive awareness made him a player to watch for the future.

Midfielders: The Engine Room of the Team

The midfield is the engine room of any football team, and Canada had a dynamic and creative midfield unit in their 2022 World Cup squad. These midfielders were responsible for controlling the tempo of the game, winning possession, and creating scoring opportunities for their teammates.

Atiba Hutchinson: The legendary captain and veteran midfielder, Hutchinson brought a wealth of experience and leadership to the Canadian squad. His composure on the ball, tactical awareness, and ability to break up opposition attacks made him an indispensable player.
Stephen Eustaquio: A technically gifted midfielder, Eustaquio provided creativity and flair in the center of the park. His passing range, vision, and ability to dictate play made him a key orchestrator for the Canadian team.
Liam Fraser: A hardworking and disciplined midfielder, Fraser provided defensive solidity and energy in the Canadian midfield. His tackling ability and work rate made him a valuable asset in breaking up opposition attacks.
Mark-Anthony Kaye: A dynamic and versatile midfielder, Kaye brought energy and creativity to the Canadian midfield. His ability to drive forward, deliver incisive passes, and contribute defensively made him a valuable asset for the team.
Ismaël Koné: A promising young midfielder, Koné offered pace, power, and skill in the center of the park. His ability to drive forward with the ball and create scoring opportunities made him an exciting prospect for the future.
Jonathan Osorio: A creative and technically gifted midfielder, Osorio provided attacking flair and vision in the Canadian midfield. His ability to unlock defenses with his passing and movement made him a valuable asset in the final third.
Samuel Piette: A tenacious and hardworking midfielder, Piette provided defensive stability and energy in the Canadian midfield. His tackling ability and work rate made him a valuable asset in breaking up opposition attacks and protecting the defense.

Forwards: The Cutting Edge

The forwards are the cutting edge of any football team, and Canada boasted a dynamic and talented attacking unit in their 2022 World Cup squad. These forwards were tasked with scoring goals, creating chances, and leading the line for their team.

Tajon Buchanan: A dynamic and skillful winger, Buchanan brought pace, trickery, and goal-scoring ability to the Canadian attack. His ability to beat defenders and deliver crosses made him a constant threat in the opposition's half.
Lucas Cavallini: A physical and hardworking striker, Cavallini provided a focal point in the Canadian attack. His aerial ability, hold-up play, and goal-scoring instincts made him a valuable asset in the final third.
Jonathan David: A prolific goalscorer and dynamic forward, David was one of the key players in the Canadian squad. His pace, skill, and finishing ability made him a constant threat to opposition defenses.
David Junior Hoilett: A versatile and experienced winger, Hoilett brought creativity and attacking flair to the Canadian team. His dribbling skills, crossing ability, and eye for goal made him a valuable asset in the final third.
Cyle Larin: A clinical finisher and prolific goalscorer, Larin was another key player in the Canadian attack. His ability to find space in the box and convert chances made him a dangerous threat to opposition defenses.
Ike Ugbo: A promising young striker, Ugbo offered a physical presence and goal-scoring ability in the Canadian attack. His potential and finishing skills made him a player to watch for the future.

Key Players to Watch

While the entire squad played a crucial role in Canada's World Cup journey, some players stood out as key figures. These key players brought exceptional talent, experience, and leadership to the team, making them essential components of Canada's success.

Alphonso Davies: The Bayern Munich star is arguably Canada's most recognizable player and a global superstar. His blistering pace, dribbling skills, and attacking prowess made him a constant threat on the left wing.
Jonathan David: The Lille striker is a clinical finisher and a key goal-scoring threat for Canada. His pace, movement, and ability to find the back of the net made him a marked man for opposing defenders.
Atiba Hutchinson: The veteran captain is the heart and soul of the Canadian team. His experience, leadership, and composure in midfield provided stability and guidance for the team.

Canada's World Cup Journey: A Resounding Success

Canada's return to the World Cup after 36 years was a resounding success, despite the team not advancing past the group stage. The team's spirited performances, attacking flair, and never-say-die attitude won the hearts of fans around the world. The experience gained in Qatar will undoubtedly serve as a valuable stepping stone for the future of Canadian soccer. So, what do you guys think of Canada's performance in the World Cup?

The Canadian national team proved that they belong on the world stage, and their participation in the 2022 World Cup marked the beginning of a new era for soccer in Canada. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents provided a solid foundation for future success. With a passionate fan base and a growing pool of talent, the future looks bright for Canadian soccer. The players on this roster represented their nation with pride, and their names will forever be etched in Canadian soccer history. We can't wait to see what they accomplish in the years to come!

Canada's 2022 World Cup roster was a testament to the growth and potential of soccer in the country. From the experienced veterans to the promising young stars, each player brought something unique to the team. Their journey in Qatar was a source of pride for Canadians everywhere, and it laid the foundation for a bright future for the sport in the nation.