Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
The opening round of the CONCACAF Gold Cup group stage features a clash between Canada and Honduras. The match will take place in Vancouver in the early hours of Wednesday, June 18. Kick-off is scheduled for 04:30 Central European Time. My recommendation focuses on the attacking potential in this fixture.
Match preview
In recent years, Canada has emerged as one of the leaders in North American football. Led by the likes of Jonathan David, Alphonso Davies, and Tajon Buchanan, the team consistently showcases aggressive, attacking football—especially on home turf.
The Canadians look to dominate through pace, pressing, and vertical play. In recent friendlies, Canada defeated Ukraine and narrowly lost to Ivory Coast in a penalty shootout.
With no World Cup qualifiers to worry about—Canada is co-hosting the tournament—the squad can focus on fine-tuning ahead of the historic event. For Jesse Marsch, the Gold Cup is a prime opportunity to experiment and prepare his best lineup.
The absence of Alphonso Davies (the Bayern defender is sidelined with injury) shouldn't be a decisive factor, given the squad's depth and quality. It's worth noting that Canada hasn't lifted the Gold Cup since 2000.
Honduras may be more conservative, but they're no less dangerous. While the "Catrachos" might not match the North Americans in technical execution, they're resilient and effective—especially on set pieces and through sheer determination.
They proved this in the previous CONCACAF Nations League, where they gave mighty Mexico a real challenge in the quarterfinals. In Gold Cup qualifying, Honduras comfortably dispatched Bermuda.
The Caribbean side also has a legitimate shot at a World Cup berth. With the USA, Canada, and Mexico skipping qualification, the odds are very much in their favor.
Honduras entered in the second round and won all four matches. To book their spot in the tournament finals, they'll battle Costa Rica, Haiti, and Nicaragua. At the very least, I expect Vasquez's men to secure a playoff spot.
Match facts
- Canada has suffered just one regulation-time defeat in their last ten matches.
- Honduras is on a four-game winning streak.
- Canada averages 1.8 goals per match, while Honduras averages 2.2.
Probable line-ups
- Canada: Crépeau, Sigur, Bassong, Cornelius, Koné, Saliba, Eustáquio, Shaffelburg, Buchanan, David, David.
- Honduras: Menjivar, Rosales, Martinez, Montes, Najar, Flores, Arriaga, Lozano, López, Palma, Quioto.
H2H
- The last two head-to-head meetings between these teams produced eight goals.
- Since 2016, Honduras has beaten Canada just once.
Prediction
Expect Canada to take control from the outset, especially with the home crowd behind them in Vancouver. Honduras will likely sit back and rely on rapid counterattacks. This game promises to be open and full of chances. Given the stats, recent form, and playing styles, betting on over 2.5 total goals looks like the smart move.
