Ascendant defender Luc de Fougerolles anchors Canada’s backline in clean-sheet win over Wales
Canadian Victory Abroad
Canada’s men’s national soccer team earned a 1-0 win over Wales in Swansea on Tuesday, marking its second straight clean-sheet victory in Europe. The result is part of Canada’s final preparation phase ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Rising Star in Defence
Nineteen-year-old defender Luc de Fougerolles anchored Canada’s backline, delivering a composed performance that highlighted his growing importance to head coach Jesse Marsch’s system. Playing in front of his family for the first time in a Canadian jersey, the London-born defender showcased calm under pressure, a key factor in securing the clean sheet.
Decisive Goal on Set Piece
The match’s only goal came late in the first half when centre back Derek Cornelius struck a powerful long-range free kick. It marked his first international goal and underscored the impact of Canada’s new set-piece strategies, implemented by assistant coach Nicolas Gagnon.
Why the Win Matters
For Canada, the result was historic — the team had not recorded back-to-back victories in Europe since 2011. The win also continued a defensive turnaround, with two consecutive clean sheets suggesting Canada’s backline, once seen as a vulnerability, is now evolving into a strength.
Emotional Night for a Young Talent
De Fougerolles, who overcame criticism after missed penalties at the Gold Cup earlier this year, credited his resilience to family support and his passion for the game. “I enjoy a high-pressure environment. I play without fear,” he said after the match. His performance drew praise from teammates, including Cornelius, who called his composure “remarkable for a teenager.”
Next Steps for Canada
With the World Cup less than a year away, Marsch is testing different defensive combinations, especially in the absence of injured centre back Moïse Bombito. The Wales result, coupled with last week’s 3-0 victory over Romania, provides momentum as Canada prepares for its toughest international tests yet.
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