TORONTO (AP) — Canada added a display in Bahrain Nov. 11 from its World Cup arrangements.
The Canadians in 41st place in the ranking will face No. Bahrain in Manama ahead of a Nov. 17 match against No. 24 Japan in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Many European-founded players have club matches on Nov. 12 and 13, but Major League Soccer players will be available for the match in Bahrain. Toronto, the team of Jonathan Osorio, Mark-Anthony Kaye, Richie Laryea and Doneil Henry, last played on Oct. 9.
“There’s fitness and then fitness for soccer,” Canada coach John Herdman said Thursday.
“This game opposite Bahrain gives players who have been out of season or who are struggling to have playing time within their club’s setup the opportunity to come in, to earn counterfeit foreign minutes, knowing that for some of them it’s like a pre-season. It’s a vital game for us. Really vital for players who want to have more fun before betting in Japan.
Players must report to the camp in Bahrain on November 4 or 5.
Preparing for its first World Cup since 1986, Canada opened Group F of the World Cup against Belgium (2nd) on November 23, faced 12th-placed Croatia 4 days later and finished the organization in form against Morocco on December 22 on December 1.
Osorio, who suffers from post-concussion syndrome, has played just 18 minutes since starting in Miami on Aug. 20. after a 10-month absence due to knee surgery.
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