Canadian Women’s National Team World Cup Preview

Canada arrives at the Women’s Futsal World Cup brimming with confidence after winning the Concacaf W Championship in May. Although they opened the tournament with a 3–2 defeat to Costa Rica, they bounced back by beating Honduras (6–0) and the United States (3–1) to advance to the semi-finals. There, they showed remarkable resilience, coming back from 0–3 down against Mexico, equalizing in the dying seconds, and winning on penalties to secure both a place in the final and World Cup qualification. The title match against Panama was more of a coronation than a contest, with Canada dominating from start to finish in a resounding 8–2 victory.

The Canadians have earned a reputation for their physical condition and athleticism—key components of their success in regional competition. Their Concacaf triumph came just after the conclusion of the domestic futsal season, allowing them to carry strong momentum into international play. Heading into the World Cup, Canada arrived relatively rested, as the Canadian futsal season was only just beginning and the team did not play any international friendlies before departing for the Philippines. Instead, they held a series of high-intensity training camps and exhibition matches against local men’s youth teams in Quebec. Once in Manila, Les Rouges played three friendlies, losing 5–1 to Poland on November 14, drawing 2–2 with the Philippines the following day, and falling 4–2 to Argentina on November 16.

Canada will open its World Cup campaign against Colombia, third-place finishers in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, before facing a talented Thailand side, runners-up at the AFC Championship. Their toughest challenge will certainly come in their final group-stage match against Spain, reigning UEFA champions and one of the tournament favourites. Spain have lost two key players, including 2022 Women’s Player of the Year Peque; although she is irreplaceable, they possess enough depth to contend for the title.

Esther Brossard is undoubtedly Canada’s standout player. The 19-year-old centre forward was named both Top Scorer and Best Player of the Concacaf Championship after scoring eight goals in qualifying, including a hat-trick in the final. Brossard, who plays college football in the United States, also represented Canada this year with the women’s U-20 national team. Her two-footed finishing, quick movement, and sharp instincts make her the team’s most dangerous attacking threat.

Other players to keep an eye on include new addition Magali Gagné, who plays for the University of Pittsburgh soccer team, and 31-year-old Saskatchewan native Erica Hindmarsh, who may well be Canada’s best two-way player.

Canada’s hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds will also depend heavily on its goalkeepers. Léa Palacio-Tellier, who received the Best Goalkeeper award during qualifying, is expected to start the opening match. Jadyn Steinhauer offers strong competition for the position; a penalty specialist and fearless presence between the posts, she made several key saves in the dramatic semi-final against Mexico, helping Canada secure their World Cup ticket.

Canada’s matches can be seen on TSN+ or for free on FIFA+ when accessed with a VPN.

Canada’s Roster for FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025