Alphonso Davies has not been named in Canada’s starting XI, leaving many wondering why the Bayern Munich star will begin such a crucial knockout match on the bench as the co-host aims to continue its remarkable tournament run. Canada faces one of the biggest matches in its soccer history when it meets Morocco in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16, but one major selection decision has immediately caught fans’ attention. Alphonso Davies has not been named in Canada’s starting XI, leaving many wondering why the Bayern Munich star will begin such a crucial knockout match on the bench as the co-host aims to continue its remarkable tournament run.
The biggest surprise before kickoff came when the Reds confirmed that Alphonso Davies would not start against Morocco despite returning from injury in the previous round.
The decision is rooted in careful fitness management following the severe hamstring injury Davies suffered while playing for Bayern Munich near the end of the club season. The injury forced the Canadian captain to miss the entire World Cup group stage as he followed a carefully managed rehabilitation program.
Davies finally returned during Canada‘s Round of 32 victory over South Africa, entering as a 75th-minute substitute. Although his appearance lasted only 15 minutes, his pace and attacking threat immediately gave Canada another dimension during the closing stages before Eustáquio scored the decisive goal.
Rather than risk overloading the star defender in his first start after such a lengthy absence, head coach Jesse Marsch and Canada’s medical staff have chosen to keep Davies available as a potential impact substitute later in the match.
*More to follow…