With Olympic qualifiers getting underway for Canada on Friday (3 p.m. PT vs. El Salvador on OneSoccer), and the MLS season fast approaching, here are three ‘Caps storylines to keep an eye on at the big tournament in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Leading from the back
It can be easy to forget that Derek Cornelius is still just 23-years-old.
The central defender has gathered his fair share of experience in pro soccer already, playing in both Germany and Serbia before coming to Vancouver in 2019. Add in 30 more appearances in MLS, and you’ve got a player who’s faced a number of challenges. That’s not even to mention his regular spot with Canada’s senior men’s national team – remember that 2-0 win over the Untied States?
Needless to say, the ‘Caps defender will be counted on.
Don’t be surprised to see Cornelius make his presence felt as Canada navigates a very tricky competition.
Feed the Bair
After coming off of a successful camp with Canada’s senior men’s national team in January, Theo Bair will be looking to shine with the Olympic squad. The big attacker is one of three 'Caps from the Whitecaps FC BMO Academy System on the roster along with Michael Baldisimo and Patrick Metcalfe.
Bair will likely be competing for minutes at striker with Charles-Andreas Brym, who plays for Royal Excel Mouscron in Belgium. Kris Twardek would have also been in the mix but is unavailable for the tournament due to medical reasons.
The proud Canadian is no stranger to helping his country get on the scoresheet. Bair scored in his men’s national team debut against Barbados last year. Further back, he bagged a goal and two assists with the U-20 team at the 2018 Toulon Tournament.
“The coaches have belief that I can represent the country well,” said Bair. “That’s all I want to do. I want to make sure that every time I put on that maple leaf I’m doing what my country needs, and for me as a striker that’s to score goals and make things happen on the field.”
Might Ryan Raposo be one player who could feed the Bair? The MLS SuperDraft pick is keen to turn heads in his first Canadian call-up since the U-15 level.
Midfield Maestros
2020 was a breakout year for Michael Baldisimo.
Can the 20-year-old use this tournament to build towards the 2021 MLS season? With his array of passing, he could be key to unlocking opposing Concacaf defences. He’s shown that level of skill for the Red & White before, notably at the 2018 Concacaf U-20 tournament.
He’ll be joined in midfield by Metcalfe, with the Richmond, BC lad earning his first participation at the national team level.
