Canada names 9 MLS players for Iceland, Tunisia friendlies

Roster kicks off 2026 World Cup preparations as Canada co-hosts tournament

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:05pm

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Canada head coach Jesse Marsch has named nine MLS players to his 26-man roster for March friendlies against Iceland and Tunisia, which will help kick off the country's preparations for co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Why it matters

The upcoming friendlies will be an important step for Canada as they build towards this summer's World Cup, which they will co-host alongside the United States and Mexico. The roster features a strong MLS contingent, highlighting the league's role in developing Canadian national team talent.

The details

The roster includes several standout MLS players, including LAFC's Mathieu Choinière, who has enjoyed a strong start to the season, and Toronto FC's Jonathan Osorio, a mainstay with 88 senior caps. Other MLS alums called up include strikers Tani Oluwaseyi (formerly of Minnesota United), Jacen Russell-Rowe (formerly of Columbus Crew), and Cyle Larin (formerly of Orlando City).

  • The friendlies against Iceland and Tunisia will take place in March 2026.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada will co-host, is scheduled for this summer.

The players

Jesse Marsch

Canada's head coach, leading the team's preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

Mathieu Choinière

Midfielder for LAFC who has enjoyed a strong start to the 2026 MLS season.

Jonathan Osorio

Veteran midfielder for Toronto FC with 88 senior caps for the Canadian national team.

Tani Oluwaseyi

Striker who previously played for Minnesota United before earning a transfer to La Liga's Villarreal.

Jacen Russell-Rowe

Striker who joined Ligue 1's Toulouse this winter after playing for the Columbus Crew.

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What they’re saying

“It's all building towards this summer, when Canada will co-host the World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico.”

— Jesse Marsch, Canada head coach

The takeaway

The inclusion of nine MLS players on Canada's roster for the upcoming friendlies highlights the league's role in developing national team talent. As Canada prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup, these matches will be an important step in building towards the tournament.