Canada ready for World Cup 'battle' with US

The Canadians have emerged as the surprise package of Central America, North America and the Caribbeans qualifying competition, unbeaten in nine matches and leading the eight-team final round with 19 points.

A victory over the second-placed United States in Hamilton, Ontario, today would put clear daylight between Canada and the chasing pack.

With only four games remaining, victory could leave 'Les Rouges' firmly on course for their first trip to the World Cup in 36 years.

Due to local Covid-19 regulations, capacity for the game has been halved to around 12,000, but Herdman hopes the smaller crowd will nevertheless create a hostile environment for the visitors.

"It's a battle. It's two teams that are desperate for three points and will do anything for it," said Herdman, the 46-year-old Englishman who took over as Canada's men's coach in 2018 after managing the women's side for seven years.