Co-hosts Canada held by Ireland ahead of World Cup

Canada’s final World Cup warm‑up ended in frustration as Jesse Marsch’s side were held to a 1‑1 draw by Ireland in Montreal. The co‑hosts controlled the match from the outset and took the lead through a first‑half own goal, when Stephen Eustaquio’s corner deflected off Troy Parrott and Jake O’Brien. Canada created several chances, with Liam Millar, Ismael Kone and Jonathan David all threatening, but they failed to extend their advantage. Ireland equalised on the hour mark as Chiedozie Ogbene reacted quickest to convert the rebound from Parrott’s saved penalty, shifting the momentum.

A series of substitutions further disrupted Canada’s rhythm, and teenage forward Mason Melia nearly snatched a late winner for the visitors. Canada, drawn in Group B with Bosnia‑Herzegovina, Qatar and Switzerland, open their campaign on June 12 in Toronto. Alphonso Davies, recovering from a hamstring injury, did not feature and is unlikely to start the opener.