Canada is ready to become a soccer nation as it hosts World Cup opener against Bosnia-Herzegovina
Canada is preparing to host the World Cup opener against Bosnia-Herzegovina, highlighting the rising popularity of soccer in the country. Recent data indicates that soccer has overtaken hockey in youth participation rates.
Why it matters
The shift in youth sports participation reflects changing cultural priorities in Canada as the nation prepares for a major international sporting event.
The World Cup is drawing attention to soccer's growing popularity in Canada. Soccer has surpassed hockey and all other sports in youth participation, according to a recent report by Jumpstart, a Canadian charity. Canada coach Jesse Marsch said Thursday he has "felt a real momentum behind this team and behind this moment."
The article reports on sports trends and event preparation without political or social bias.
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