Canada’s Tani Oluwaseyi Emerges As Key Player Ahead of Gold Cup

TORONTO, Canada — Canadian national soccer team coach Jesse Marsch sees great potential in Tani Oluwaseyi as they head into the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. The striker, born in Nigeria but raised in Mississauga, Ontario, has made a name for himself in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Minnesota United, where he scored seven goals in his first 15 games this season.

Marsch, who took over coaching duties in May 2024, was quick to recruit Oluwaseyi after noticing his scoring ability and competitive spirit. “I saw a goalscorer,” Marsch said. “He has a willingness to defend for his team and to run back and compete. He showed some raw tools that could help us.” During the pre-Copa América camp, Oluwaseyi made a memorable debut as a late substitute in a match against France.

In that match, Marsch recalls Oluwaseyi’s initial nerves while meeting the team, especially captain Alphonso Davies, who helped welcome him. Marsch emphasized the importance of integrating new players into the team’s culture. “We bring those guys in, we really integrate them into the mindset of the group,” he added.

Since joining the national roster, Oluwaseyi has gained valuable experience, amassing 12 caps and showcasing his talent by featuring prominently in the Copa América. Despite the increased competition from other players, he has maintained his role as a significant contributor. In the MLS, he has achieved a scoring rate of one goal every two games.

As Canada prepares for the Gold Cup, Oluwaseyi is expected to receive ample playing time, with potential to increase his goal tally. This is a crucial opportunity for him to solidify his position on the national team ahead of the World Cup in 2026.

Despite being part of a talented squad, Marsch acknowledged that Oluwaseyi is not yet a guaranteed first-choice striker but is poised to thrive in the upcoming tournament. “You wouldn’t bet against him at least doubling his CanMNT tally at the tournament,” he said. This reflects the growing pool of soccer talent in the Greater Toronto Area, underscoring the importance of local players like Oluwaseyi on the international stage.