Canada beats Chile 1-0 and opens the 2030 World Cup cycle

Canada opened the 2030 World Cup qualifying cycle with a 1-0 win over Chile at Toronto FC’s BMO Field. Jonathan David scored the game’s only goal in the 12th minute, slotting home a rebound after an extraordinary save by Chilean goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux, who had earlier denied a point-blank effort from Cyle Larin.

As mlssoccer reports, Chile were reduced to 10 men in the 36th minute, when Lucas Cepeda was shown a straight red card for a raised boot that left Richie Laryea bloodied. Five minutes after the start of the second half, Gabriel Suazo picked up a second yellow and was sent off, leaving La Roja with nine men and severely hampering their chances of getting back into the game.

Canada now turn their eyes to the next match against Peru, to be played at CF Montréal’s Stade Saputo next Saturday. The friendly will serve the squad to continue preparations in this early phase of the 2030 World Cup cycle.

The key details of the match, including Jonathan David’s goal and the disciplinary sanctions against Chile, were also noted by mlssoccer.