The Canadian men’s national team’s first win (and first goal) at the World Cup will have to wait.
Canada lost to Belgium 1-0 in its first game of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar on Wednesday.
The Canadians came out strong in the first half, surprising a world No. 2-ranked Belgium side and earning a penalty kick nine minutes in.
With superstar Alphonso Davies kicking from the spot, Belgian ‘keeper Thibault Courtois stretched out to make a save and keep the score 0-0.
Belgium striker Michy Batshuayi then broke the deadlock in the 44th minute, giving his side the 1-0 lead entering half time despite Canada’s 14 attempted shots — the most in any half without a goal at the World Cup since 2006.
Despite Canada’s continuous pressure in the second half, Belgium hung on for the victory and three points.
Canada’s next opportunity comes Sunday against Croatia.
