Co-host nation Canada salvaged a 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Friday night at Toronto's BMO Field, but missed a string of clear-cut chances that could have delivered a winning start to their Group B campaign.
Co-hosts Canada grabbed a second-half equaliser to draw 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina on Friday in the first World Cup finals game ever played on Canadian soil.
Cyle Larin got Canada's goal after Jovo Lukic put Bosnia ahead with a header in the 21st minute in Toronto.
The result gave Canada its first point in World Cup history.
Canadian sides had a perfect record of futility at two previous tournament appearances in 1986 and 2022, with six losses.
Lukic's goal from a corner sent the small but enthusiastic Bosnian contingent at the Toronto Stadium into a frenzy.
Canada had the majority of play in the first half but failed to generate any real chances.
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The stadium erupted in the 17th minute when forward Jonathan David had a clear shot on goal, but it was easily handled by Bosnian keeper Nikola Vasilj.
Canada's Ismael Kone had a golden opportunity in the 30th minute, but sailed his strike well over the net, prompting groans from tens of thousands of Canadians who blanketed the stadium in a sea of red.
Canada's missed opportunities
The second half began in similar fashion, with Canada largely on the attack, but unable to find the net.
Bosnia's veteran defender Sead Kolasinac saved a certain goal when he diverted a strike from David onto the crossbar, extending Canada's agony.
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But Larin's strike in the 78th minute marked a high point in Canada's limited World Cup history, causing a mostly Canadian crowd of 43,000 to erupt.
The goal was celebrated wildly by the home fans, with Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Mike Myers in the stands.
Canada threatened a winner in the closing moments but had to settle for a draw and will next face Qatar in Vancouver on June 18.
"It was special for me. I was ready to come and help the team," said Larin. "I thought the goals would come. I score when Canada needs me, and always have done.
"We just have to stay concentrated. We'll be playing at home and just have to push the limit."
(FRANCE 24 with AFP)
