Cyle Larin‘s 79th-minute goal helped Canada earn a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in their opening match of the World Cup in Toronto on Friday.
After spending most of the game dominating possession but failing to find a way past Bosnian goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, Canada coach Jesse Marsch brought Larin on with 14 minutes to play in hopes of a spark.
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Three minutes later, the move paid off.
Larin’s equalizer was a long-time coming for Canada. Throughout the match they were able to find space in the Bosnia and Herzegovina end, but were provided no good fortune in the final third. Jonathan David had a chance early on, but his shot went right at Vasilj for an easy save.
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Nearly a half hour before Larin’s goal, Richie Laryea had Vasilj beat following a lovely passing sequence by Canada, but his shot was cleared off the line by Sead Kolašinac.
Canada had to chase a tying goal for over 50 minutes. They fell behind in the 21st minute after Jovo Lukić got on the end of a corner kick for his first international goal.
The 1-0 lead dampened the joyous mood inside BMO Field, which had a festive atmosphere following a march to the match by a large number of supporters from both sides.
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Canada finished with 61% possession as Larin’s goal only further pushed them to seek a late winner. But no goal was to be had, even as Larin had an opportunity blocked in the final minute of stoppage time. The co-hosts had to settle for an opening match draw as they still search for their first-ever World Cup victory.
Canada will next face Qatar in Vancouver, while Bosnia and Herzegovina will take on Switzerland in Los Angeles with both matches taking place on June 18.
