(Toronto) Decision time is approaching for Canadian women’s soccer coach Bev Priestman ahead of the Paris Olympics, and Canada’s match against Mexico will be another opportunity to impress on Tuesday in Toronto.
But Priestman says the real decision-making process will come after this camp, after reviewing the footage and analyzing the data with his coaching staff. And it will also take into account the health of the players.
“So I have to wait,” the head coach said after a practice session Monday at BMO Field. I have to wait as long as possible to finally choose the best possible team to represent Canada at these Olympic Games. »
“And what I do know is that I will have to make some tough calls with some incredible players who would probably be on other countries’ rosters. »
Priestman agreed that it was a good problem to have. But that doesn’t make things any easier.
I have great relationships on this team and I care about my players, as human beings and athletes. This is always the hardest part of the job.
Bev Priestman, coach of the Canadian women’s soccer team
Canada has until July 3 to name a roster of 18 players and four substitutes. Priestman said she expects to announce her picks by the end of June so everyone knows what to expect during the international window July 8-16, just before the Games.
The Canadians, ranked ninth in the world, will begin the defense of their Olympic title on July 25 against New Zealand (26e) in Saint-Étienne. They will then cross swords with France (fifth), on July 28 at the same place, then with Colombia (25e), on July 31 in Nice.
There are decisions to be made, both on fitness and health.
Midfielder Quinn (knee) and defender Sydney Collins (broken ankle) did not participate in camp. And Canada has a glut of forwards.
“Tell me about that,” Priestman said.
Although Priestman tried to take some pressure off the players by saying one performance wouldn’t be enough to make the team or be cut, the decisions ahead remain important.
“I feel like there’s a little bit of nervousness,” said forward Adriana Leon, whose move to Paris is assured as the Canadian women’s third-highest scorer of all time with 40 goals.
“I think it’s normal given what’s coming and that it’s the last camp before Paris. So there was a little bit of nervousness and a little bit of extra energy, excitement too. Everyone is always happy to play at home. »
The Canadians defeated Mexico 2-0 on Saturday at Saputo Stadium thanks to goals from Leon and Cloé Lacasse in front of 15,319 fans. Mexicans are 31arebut third in CONCACAF behind the United States (fourth) and Canada.
The maple leaf representatives have a record of 23-2-3 against Mexico, but had not won in their last two duels (0-1-1) before Saturday.