Davies returns as Canada host Qatar in pivotal Group B clash

Alphonso Davies is back for Qatar

Your best player returns. Alphonso Davies is fit and available for Canada's second World Cup group match against Qatar in Vancouver (1) (2). He missed the opener, and his absence was felt. Jesse Marsch kept it dry: "Maybe we'll get through this one without creating news cycles" (1).

No scoreline from Canada's first match is available in today's sources, but this one matters. Group B, at home, with Davies back in the lineup. A win puts you in control.

Marsch bullish ahead of Thursday's match

The Canada manager sounds confident, and not just because his captain is back. Marsch addressed the media a day before Qatar arrive at BC Place, and the tone was pointed, he wants the focus on the football, not the noise (1) (3).

Full line-ups and a match preview are live at 101greatgoals.com (3).

Fan-reaktioner

One word sums up the mood in the Canada thread: finally. "Phonsie is back!!!" posted /u/Commandant1 on r/worldcup, and the sentiment echoes across the board (1). Davies' return has lifted a fanbase that was already buzzing for the first home World Cup match in Vancouver.

Canada captain Alphonso Davies available to play vs. Qatar