Canada’s chances at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup have been dealt a blow as co-captain Emma Reda sustained an injury during training. The 16-year-old midfielder, daughter of former Canadian international Marco Reda, fractured her ulna while attempting a slide tackle to regain possession. In her absence, Ottawa midfielder Felicia Hanisch has been called up as a replacement. The Canadian squad is already missing Reese Kay and Joelle Bader due to injuries, while Kaylee Hunter was promoted to the senior team after her club, AFC Toronto, declined to release her for the U-17 championship. The remaining co-captains for Canada in Morocco are defender Chloe Taylor and midfielder Olivia Chisholm.
The team’s roster includes promising 15-year-old attacker Melyna Alexis from Mascouche, Quebec, who has been described by coach Jen Herst as a dynamic player with speed and technical skills, particularly strong in one-on-one situations on the left side of the field.
Canada is set to face Nigeria in their opening match at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, with Herst anticipating a tough challenge from the African team known for their fast and physical style of play. Nigeria’s striker Shakirat Moshood, who scored four goals in the previous tournament, is a key player to watch. Following the Nigeria match, Canada will play against Samoa and France in Group D fixtures at the Football Academy Mohammed VI in Sale.
Herst expressed confidence in Canada’s ability to advance from the group stage, emphasizing the team’s commitment to playing exciting football and showcasing the Canadian spirit on the field. The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-place finishers, will progress to the knockout stage of the tournament.
Despite missing out on the 2024 FIFA U-17 World Cup, Canada has a strong history in the competition, with past achievements including a fourth-place finish in 2018. The team secured qualification for the 2025 tournament by winning its CONCACAF qualifying group earlier in the year.
In preparation for the tournament, the Canadian team participated in various international competitions and training camps to fine-tune their skills and teamwork. Herst highlighted the team’s positive spirit and unity, despite facing challenges in adapting to the conditions in Morocco. Canada recently faced Ivory Coast in a friendly match, which ended in a 4-1 defeat.
Canada’s opponents in the tournament include defending champions North Korea, multiple-time winners Spain, and other competitive teams like Nigeria, France, and Samoa. Each team brings its own history and strengths to the competition, setting the stage for an exciting and challenging tournament in Morocco.