The co-host Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina 2026 FIFA World Cup encounter ended in a 1-1 draw on Friday night. Both teams fought hard, but with good defensive football on display, neither side gained any momentum as both teams shared a point each in their opening game.

Bosnia went ahead with a 21st-minute strike from Jovo Lukic, sending Canada reeling in the first half. It was Canadian striker Cyle Larin who came off the bench to salvage a 1-1 draw for his side against Bosnia and Herzegovina in a frenetic Group B opener.

Canada, the stronger side between the two, was the favourite going into the game. However, they missed several chances in the second half after picking up the pace.

An almost certain goal was denied to the hosts when Richie Laryea’s screamer was deflected by Bosnia’s Sead Kolašinac, miraculously steering the shot onto the crossbar and away to safety.

In the second half, the Canadians continued their relentless attack on Bosnia, but despite creating multiple chances, they lacked precision in their finishing as the Bosnian defence dealt with successive attacks from the reds.

Bosnia would take the draw on any given day against the Canadian side. However, the North American giants will now feel pressure going into their second game of the tournament.

The result gave Canada their first-ever World Cup point but left them short of the winning start they had craved.

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