Alistair Johnston, a standout player for Celtic last season, also showcased his talent on the international stage for Canada. His contributions were pivotal in leading his country to the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa America semi-finals, solidifying his position as one of Canada’s top performers. With 54 caps to his name, Johnston emerged as a reliable defender for Canada under the guidance of Jesse Marsch.
However, Johnston’s flawless record was tarnished during the recent Gold Cup match against Curacao. In a rare moment of error, Johnston’s mistake in the midfield led to Curacao’s match-tying goal, costing Canada the much-needed three points. The disappointment was palpable among fans and assistant manager Mauro Biello, who lamented the team’s failure to manage the game effectively in crucial moments.
While the draw may not severely impact Canada’s World Cup qualification prospects, the loss of points against Advocaat’s Curacao was less than ideal, especially following their impressive 6-0 victory over Honduras. Biello stressed the importance of learning from such experiences and emphasized the need for the team to be more compact and difficult to break down in future matches.
As Canada reflects on the lessons learned from the match, the team remains determined to bounce back stronger and secure their path to the 2026 World Cup. Despite the setback, Johnston’s contributions on both the club and international levels continue to be recognized, showcasing his undeniable talent and resilience on the field.
