Alphonso Davies Fit for Bench Role in Canada's World Cup Clash Against Qatar

Canada captain Alphonso Davies has been named on the bench for the World Cup group-stage match against co-hosts Qatar on Thursday, as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury. The Bayern Munich left-back, sidelined since tearing his ACL in March 2025, was an unused substitute in Canada's opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Coach Jesse Marsch confirmed that Davies will be available for the game in Vancouver but stressed that his role will depend on how the match unfolds. "He's been in training this week, and he'll be available tomorrow, and we'll see how the match goes and then make a decision on how we would choose to use him," Marsch said on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old Davies suffered a hamstring injury during Bayern Munich's Champions League semi-final against PSG in May 2025. He has been under a return-to-play protocol and was limited in training earlier this week. Marsch added, "We've worked really closely with his physio, we've worked really well through this and Alphonso is looking really good."

Due to a string of injuries, Davies has only featured in two of Canada's last 22 matches. His last appearance for Canada was in March 2025 when he tore his ACL in the CONCACAF Nations League third-place game against the United States. With 15 goals in 58 international appearances, his return is a boost for Canada as they aim to strengthen their group-stage position.

Canada opened their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto, with substitute Cyle Larin scoring the equalizer in the 78th minute. Richie Laryea started at full-back in Davies' place against Qatar. Marsch also confirmed that centre-back Moise Bombito is nearing a return to full fitness after a brief substitution in a warm-up match.

Qatar, also with one point from a 1-1 draw with Switzerland, will look to secure their first World Cup win. All four teams in Group B have one point heading into the second round of matches.