TORONTO June 12, 2026 – Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) – In a landmark moment for Canadian soccer, the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off on home soil today as Canada faced Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group B at Toronto Stadium. The match marked the first time the Canadian men’s national team has ever played a FIFA World Cup fixture on Canadian territory.
A vibrant pre-match opening ceremony, held 90 minutes before kickoff, electrified the sold-out crowd. The spectacle featured a star-studded lineup of performers celebrating Canadian culture and the global game. Artists including Alessia Cara, Michael Bublé, Jessie Reyez, Elyanna, Nora Fatehi, and others delivered high-energy performances on a stage centered around a massive golden World Cup globe prop. Canadian icon Alanis Morissette performed the national anthem, while Aleksandar Gajić delivered Bosnia and Herzegovina’s. Actor and comedian Will Arnett appeared as a FIFA World Cup 2026 Ambassador.
The ceremony culminated in a dazzling stadium-wide display with red pyrotechnics, confetti, flags, and performers filling the pitch, creating an unforgettable atmosphere under clear Toronto skies.
On the pitch, Bosnia and Herzegovina took the lead in the 21st minute when Jovo Lukić headed home a corner. Canada dominated much of the possession but had to wait until the 78th minute for substitute Cyle Larin to volley home the equalizer, securing a hard-fought 1-1 draw. It was Canada’s first-ever World Cup point after previous tournament appearances ended in defeats.
The result leaves both teams with work to do in Group B, but the evening belonged to the milestone for Canadian soccer. Fans turned downtown Toronto into a sea of red during pre-match marches, high-fiving strangers and belting out anthems.
Toronto will host five more matches during the tournament, including a Round of 32 clash. The 48-team edition of the World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, promises to be the biggest yet.
A proud day for the maple leaf — the World Cup has truly arrived in Canada. 🇨🇦⚽️
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