Alphonso Davies did not start in Canada's FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12.

What happened?

The Canadian captain is still recovering from a hamstring injury picked up in the second leg of Bayern Munich's UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Why it matters for Alphonso Davies

Davies has managed just two appearances in Canada's last 21 matches due to ongoing fitness issues, limiting his international game time in recent months.

What comes next?

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch spoke openly about the situation, stating that Davies is healing incredibly well but not at 100 per cent just yet, and the team cannot afford to rush their star player back.

Canada will need other players to step up and fill the gap left by their captain, with Davies' speed and ability to push forward being key parts of their attacking plan.

The latest MRI showed good healing progress, and with careful management, Davies could return for later group games.

On June 12, Canada faced Bosnia and Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium, with goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau and defenders Alistair Johnston, Luc DE Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, and Richie Laryea starting.

Midfielders Stephen Eustaquio, Ismael Kone, and Liam Millar also started, along with forwards Jonathan David, Tani Oluwaseyi, and Tajon Buchanan.

Aachal Maniyar, a Senior Content Producer at LiveMint, reported that Davies' absence was a tough blow for both him and the team.

Marsch stressed that protecting Davies' long-term health matters more than forcing him into early action.

The focus stays on the collective effort and using home support to get a result against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Davies' injury has limited his participation in Canada's World Cup squad, but he was still named in the matchday group.

Canada's World Cup campaign began on home soil with plenty of hope and expectation, facing Bosnia and Herzegovina in their opener.

The team must find new ways to create chances on the left side while staying solid at the back without their captain.

Davies' return to fitness will be crucial for Canada's chances in the tournament, with his pace and attacking threat being key assets.

For now, the team must rely on other players to step up and fill the gap left by their injured captain.