Canada names Jayden Nelson for World Cup debut as Bosnia finalizes squad ahead of opener

The Canadian Soccer Association announced that 20‑year‑old winger Jayden Nelson will replace injured midfielder Marcelo Flores on the roster for the 2026 World Cup. Flores suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee at the end of May and underwent surgery, ruling him out of the tournament. Nelson, who plays for Austin FC, has scored two goals in ten MLS matches and three goals in fourteen senior appearances, most recently in a friendly win over Uzbekistan.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s squad has arrived in Toronto and completed its first training session ahead of the Friday opening match against Canada. Coach Sergej Barbarez confirmed the addition of forward Haris Tabaković, noting that his recovery is proceeding well and that he is expected to be available for the second and third group‑stage games. Barbarez praised the team’s morale and stated the side aims to advance beyond the group stage.

Canada opens the tournament in Toronto against Bosnia and Herzegovina before moving to Vancouver for its remaining group matches versus Qatar and Switzerland.