Canada’s last outing before the World Cup ended without a victory as the team played out a 1-1 result against Ireland on Friday evening.
The North Americans moved in front midway through the opening half. Following a corner delivered by Stephen Eustáquio, Ireland defender Jake O’Brien inadvertently sent the ball into his own net while positioned directly in front of goal, giving Canada a 24th-minute lead.
The Canadians maintained their advantage through the remainder of the first period, taking a narrow edge into the break after benefiting from the defensive mishap.
Ogbene responds after penalty drama
Ireland found a route back into the contest during the second half after being awarded a spot kick. The decision came after Jamie McGrath was brought down by Cyle Larin, whose challenge was judged to be reckless.
Although Maxime Crépeau initially kept Canada ahead by batting away Troy Parrott’s penalty attempt, the rebound fell kindly for Chiedozie Ogbene, who reacted quickly to convert and level the score in the 60th minute.
Earlier on the same day, Larin had completed a move to Southampton, signing a contract that will keep him with the club for the next two years.
Crépeau shines as Canada turns attention to the World Cup
Ireland pushed for a winner late in the match and came close to taking the lead, but Crépeau preserved the draw with an important intervention against Mason Melia in the 85th minute. The Canadian goalkeeper ended the evening with two saves.
Crépeau will enter the World Cup as Canada’s first-choice goalkeeper after securing the position ahead of Dayne St. Claire. The tournament holds special significance for him after he was unable to participate in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar because of a broken leg suffered while playing for LAFC in the MLS Cup final.
Canada heads into the competition after also defeating Uzbekistan 2-0 in Edmonton, Alberta, earlier in the week. Their World Cup campaign begins on June 12 in Toronto with a Group B meeting against Bosnia and Herzegovina, followed by matches against Qatar on June 18 and Switzerland on June 24 in Vancouver.