Alphonso Davies may not play for Canada vs. Belgium in World Cup opener

Alphonso Davies is injured and may miss Canada's World Cup opener against Belgium on Wednesday. Davies was injured in a game on Nov. 6 and missed Bayern Munich's next two matches. He joined Canada on Friday. Canada coach John Herdman is not worried about Davies' absence. HerDman and his team have another game coming. The team is working hard to get Davies ready for that game. The coach is aware that it could be a long tournament for Canada. Germany is doing everything to help Davies recover. Bayern are working to progress him. They have already missed the friendly against Japan. It is a good sign that Davies took part in the first part of Canada’s training session on Saturday.

Canada's coach used a 4-4-2 formation against Japan. Herdman wants his team to prepare for the upcoming match against Belgium. He wants Sam Adekugbe to play wide in preparation for that match. He also wants to use his fullbacks more often. Canada's starting XI against the Belgium is expected to be 3-5-3.

Junior Hoilett was Canada's best player against Japan. He played with composure and determination. Hoilitett has 50 caps and 14 goals for Canada. He has six seasons of experience in the Premier League. Canada play Belgium in World Cup opener. Alphonso Davies is injured. His replacement could be Hoilaft. The match is on June 14.

Cyle Larin played 71 minutes against Japan. He was substituted for Lucas Cavallini. Some Canadian fans want him to start higher up with Jonathan David and Tajon Buchanan. Richie Laryea could come into the starting XI as a wingback.

Larin hasn't played often for Club Brugge this season. Belgium's backline is aging and could be comprised of players playing in the Jupiler Belgian Pro League. Larin has not seen the pitch against the likes of Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld and Zeno Debast this year. Herdman is going to play a two-forward approach in a 4-4-2 against Japan.

Buchanan could play on the left during the game. Herdman used him on that way in the 2021 Gold Cup. Buchanan could also play in a right wingback role. He's got the experience to adapt to that role, but it's not clear if he'll play there.

Alphonso Davies may not play for Canada vs. Belgium in World Cup opener. Herdman will want to throw a curveball at some point in Qatar.

Stephen Eustaquio is still sore after a muscle injury. Herdman is not sure if he can play for Canada against Belgium.

Alphonso Davies may not play for Canada vs. Belgium in World Cup opener. If Eustaquio isn't ready to start, Ismael Kone could start. Milan Borjan is also a doubt as he has an abdomen issue.