Larin rescues Canada's first World Cup point in draw with Bosnia-Herzegovina

Canada earned their first ever World Cup point after coming from behind to draw 1-1 with Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto. Jesse Marsch’s side looked set for a frustrating defeat after Bosnia took the lead, but Cyle Larin struck late to salvage a point for the co-hosts.

Bosnia went ahead through Jovo Lukic, who headed in from close range after a corner was flicked on by Sead Kolasinac. Canada had chances to respond before half-time, but Jonathan David and Tani Oluwaseyi both missed good opportunities. Bosnia also defended superbly, with Kolasinac and Nikola Katic both making crucial clearances off the line to keep the hosts out.

The pressure finally told in the 79th minute when substitute Larin scored almost immediately after coming on. The Southampton striker needed just 121 seconds to make his mark, finishing from inside the box after a clever flick from fellow substitute Promise David. Toronto erupted as Canada rescued a point that could prove important in the group.

Canada had several near misses before the equaliser. Richie Laryea was denied by a remarkable Kolasinac intervention that kept Bosnia in front, while Oluwaseyi also saw a header cleared off the line by Katic. Bosnia could have punished Canada again on the break, but Ermedin Demirovic wasted a one-on-one chance. Larin almost won it deep into stoppage time, only for his effort to be blocked.

The match has raised questions about Jonathan David’s place in the starting XI. He arrived at the tournament after a difficult season with Juventus and looked short of confidence, missing a clear chance early on and finishing with just 24 touches, the lowest of any Canada starter. By contrast, Larin and Promise David looked sharper after coming off the bench and may have done enough to force their way into contention for the next game.

Marsch admitted his team were too cautious in the first half, saying Canada were tentative and did not play with the aggression he expects. He said the second-half improvement showed what they are capable of, especially once the substitutes raised the tempo. He also felt Bosnia were fading and urged his players to “go for the goal” when the chance arrived.

Canada now turn their attention to a crucial match against Qatar, where a win would significantly improve their chances of advancing. The draw keeps them in the hunt, but Marsch will want a much sharper performance next time.