Cyle Larin to Lead Canada Against Ivory Coast at Canadian Shield

TORONTO, Canada — Cyle Larin will captain the Canadian national soccer team in its final match of the Canadian Shield tournament against Ivory Coast on Tuesday. This decision comes as regular captain Alphonso Davies is sidelined due to injury.

Larin, a veteran forward, stepped into the leadership role after vice-captain Stephen Eustaquio led Canada to a 4-2 victory over No. 25 ranked Ukraine in their opening game. Earlier this week, coach Jesse Marsch indicated he plans to rotate his lineup for the match against the 41st-ranked Ivory Coast.

“It’s an honor to captain this team,” said Larin, who hails from Brampton, Ontario. He has represented Canada 81 times, scoring 30 goals. “I came into this program in 2014 and have watched it grow. Now to be in this position is a great feeling.”

Canada has not faced an African team since a loss to Morocco during the 2022 World Cup. Meanwhile, Larin’s leadership will be pivotal, especially as he transitions the role to younger players, including Jonathan David, who is expected to captain the team at the upcoming CONCACAF Gold Cup.

On the other side, Ivory Coast is looking to bounce back after losing 1-0 to No. 86 New Zealand in their tournament opener. Coach Emerse Fae stated, “We expect to win. A big team can lose one game, but they don’t lose two in a row. We want to show our capability against teams from outside Africa.”

Fae’s squad features notable players from various international clubs, including midfielder Franck Kessié and forward Nicolas Pépé. While hoping to secure a win, Fae acknowledged the team’s missed opportunities in their last game, expressing confidence in their overall talent.

Larin, reflecting on his vast experience with Canada, remarked, “With more players stepping up to score goals, it raises the competition and helps us all improve. It’s a great thing for the team.”

As the match approaches, both teams are determined to assert their strength on the field. Canada aims to maintain its momentum, while Ivory Coast seeks redemption following their recent defeat.