Canada to host Ukraine and two other countries in FIFA World Cup tune-up matches
The world may have its eyes on Canada for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but a few countries will be getting a sneak peek later this year.
Today, it was announced that Toronto’s BMO Field — a venue for six matches at the World Cup — will host a four-team cup this June called the Canadian Shield.
On June 7 and 10, Canada, New Zealand, Ukraine, and CĂ´te d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) will face off in a pair of matches to help get the squads ready for next year’s major event.
“Every competitive match from now until the World Cup will be critical to get our team the preparation it needs ahead of welcoming the world next year. This is an extraordinary addition to our annual competitive calendar and to be able to play at home in front of our fans again will be really special for our guys,” said Canadian national coach Jesse Marsch. ​
On the opening day, Canada will take on Ukraine at 3:30 p.m. with New Zealand against Côte d’Ivoire at 7 p.m. Three days later, New Zealand takes on Ukraine at 5 p.m., while Canada and Côte d’Ivoire close out the tournament at 8:30 p.m.
Unlike international friendlies, the matches will have a guaranteed winner and will go to a shootout immediately after the 90 minutes if still tied.
The matches take place almost exactly a year prior to the start of the World Cup, with Canada slated to play at BMO Field on June 12, 2026, in its opening game of the tournament.
“The Canadian Shield will not only give the Canadian Men’s National Team a chance to prepare against some of the best competition in the world, but it continues to build the excitement for the city and the global fans here of the ‘beautiful game,'” said Keith Pelley, president & CEO of MLSE.
Toronto will host six games at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Vancouver is the lone other Canadian host city and is hosting seven games.
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