Both Canada and the United States might be disappointed to compete for third place in the Concacaf Nations League instead of the final. However, this match still presents a significant opportunity for managers Mauricio Pochettino and Jesse Marsch. They can demonstrate progress after recent defeats against strong opposition, which is valuable preparation for the 2026 World Cup, especially as both nations bypass World Cup qualifying.
While a trophy isn`t at stake, there`s still plenty to play for. Players on both sides will be eager to perform well, aiming to secure their place on the World Cup roster. This is especially crucial as some players may miss the Gold Cup due to Club World Cup commitments.
In their encounters in 2023, the United States won one match and drew another against Canada. Canada secured a victory in a friendly in 2024. The USMNT will face a tougher challenge without Antonee Robinson, but these are the types of situations that reveal which players are ready for Pochettino`s squad.
How to Watch and Odds
- Date: Sunday, March 23
- Location: SoFi Stadium — Inglewood, California
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Canada +225; Draw +230; USMNT +114
Storylines
USMNT: After struggling to capitalize on opportunities against Panama, the USMNT must take the initiative offensively, or Canada`s attackers will punish them. Pochettino highlighted the lack of scoring as a key issue after the Panama game. He acknowledged the team followed the game plan and showed effort but stressed the need for more aggression and competitiveness in attack.
To inject more dynamism into the attack, Diego Luna or Gio Reyna could be options against Canada, with the choice depending on their training performance. Reyna, needing to prove his place under Pochettino after limited playing time at Dortmund, and others will be crucial in unlocking a new dimension for the USMNT`s offense.
USMNT predicted XI: Matt Turner, Max Arftsen, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Joe Scally, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Diego Luna, Christian Pulisic, Josh Sargent, Tim Weah
Canada: Despite Canada`s strong performances as one of Concacaf`s top teams, defeating the United States is vital for them to be truly considered among the region`s best. Similar to the USMNT, many of Canada`s key players are now in major European leagues. These matches are important for Marsch to demonstrate progress after a disappointing 2022 World Cup. A victory against the United States, building on a strong Copa America showing, could signal a power shift in the region.
Canada predicted XI: Dayne St. Clair, Alphonso Davies, Derek Cornelius, Moise Bombito, Alistair Johnston, Ismael Kone, Stephen Eustaquio, Jonathan Osorio, Jonathan David, Ali Ahmed, Cyle Larin
Prediction
Expect a closely contested match where the USMNT`s depth will be decisive, giving them a late edge to secure a win. Pick: USMNT 2, Canada 1
Adrian Whitmore 
Benedict Kingsley