Davies’ status remains unclear ahead of Canada-Qatar clash

Mikaela Ariar, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
June 17, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Alphonso Davies

CANADA – As the country continues to wait for Alphonso Davies, the team prepares for the next World Cup match versus Qatar on Thursday in Vancouver.

Davies, a 25-year-old player, is still recovering from a hamstring damage that kept him out since May, which prevented him from the tournament-opening 1-1 draw against Herzegovina and Bosnia. While he participated in individual works and warm-ups during the training period, Canada has been unclear regarding his return.

He remains one of the country’s most influential participants, having a record of 15 goals and 17 assists in more than 50 appearances for the national team. Davies also famously scored Canada’s first men’s World Cup goal last 2022 in Qatar.

Additionally, his team members emphasized the value of his experience, leadership, speed, and capability to change the game, but reports says the staff is prioritizing his recovery at the moment, before making a decision.

Canada is currently concentrating on victories against Qatar, regardless of the news about Davies. The team acknowledged that several higher-ranked teams had a hard time against lower-ranked rivals, highlighting the significance of avoiding complacency. Ranked 30th, Canada expects a demanding match against Rank 56th Qatar and believes to delivers a strong beginning that its opening draw.