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For a team returning to the grand stage in 36 years, Canada marked it with a performance to match. The Canadians fought toe to toe with second-ranked Belgium but failed to land the telling blow. From the get-go, Canada, led by David and Buchanan, pushed the red devil's backline to uncomfortable territories. The Belgians were sweating profusely, trying to keep up with the Canadians, speed of play. It looked like the Footballing Gods were also on Canada's side when they were awarded the penalty in the first half.
The pendulum was on their side, and it was time for their starman Davies to announce their homecoming in style. But their joy was short-lived as Courtois came to the red devil's rescue. The Canadians smelt blood on multiple occasions but were incapable of finishing their prey. Canada had double the attempts compared to Belgium (22 and 9), but only three were on target.
Minus the penalty, Alfonso Davies was a different sauce. The Bayern defender started his career as a winger and showcased his qualities again. Davies played a much-advanced role and hypnotized the red devils' backline with his trickery. Along with Davies, Buchanan was also impressed, but like his teammates, he also pilled his dinner. The Canadians ran themselves to the ground and enjoyed each moment of their homecoming.
The saying " Goals win you matches" hit home more than ever today. With Belgium's experience, they took their chance and prevailed to be victorious. The finish of the match's only goal was crisp, but the defending was questionable. A long diagonal from Alderweirald split open the Candian defense, which was rock solid the whole match. But that split lapse of concentration came back to haunt the Canadians.
Although Canada deserved much better today, they also learned about the harsh reality of the game. If you don't take your chances, you don't win matches. In their remaining games, Canada needs to be more lethal in the final third, whereas Belgium needs to start performing to their level. As this could be the only chance for the Golden Generation to make history.