5 Things to Know
Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team (CANWNT) is back in action this April, heading to Brazil for the FIFA Series 2026™, a unique international window featuring diverse global matchups and high-stakes competition.
The FIFA Series 2026™ introduces a fresh approach to international football, uniting 50 nations across 13 groups and six confederations. Designed to create more diverse matchups, the tournament gives teams the chance to face opponents they wouldn’t typically encounter. The format also raises the stakes: if a match ends in a draw, it goes straight to a penalty shootout, no extra time. With only one team emerging as group winner, every moment matters, adding a competitive edge and more excitement for fans.
Ranked 9th in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, CANWNT will face a trio of unique challenges against Zambia, Korea Republic, and Brazil. Zambia presents a true unknown, with this set to be the first-ever meeting between the two sides. Korea Republic presents a different kind of challenge, with a strong technical game and disciplined approach. While Canada has had success in previousmatchups, it’s not a team they can afford to take lightly. The window concludes with a match against Brazil, as two top 10 nations meet on Brazilian soil, adding another layer of intensity to an already tightly contested rivalry.
All of Canada’s matches will be played at Arena Pantanal in Cuiabá, providing consistency in environment while still presenting challenges with climate and conditions. The stadium regularly serves as the home to Cuiabá Esporte Clube, and notably hosted 4 group stage matches during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Canada opens the window on 11 April against Zambia, followed by Korea Republic on 14 April, before wrapping up against Brazil on 18 April. With quick turnarounds between matches, squad rotation and adaptability will be key as Canada looks to build momentum across the week.
Head Coach Casey Stoney has selected a squad that builds continuity from earlier this year, with 18 players returning from the SheBelieves Cup. The return of Kadeisha Buchanan is a major boost, as the veteran centre back brings leadership and over 150 international caps after recovering from injury. Canada also welcomes back goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo, defender Jayde Riviere, and forward Olivia Smith.
With Brazil set to host the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, competing in similar conditions offers valuable experience for the squad. As Casey Stoney and her staff continue shaping the team’s identity, these matches provide a key opportunity to test tactics, build chemistry, and evaluate performance against a range of playing styles. This window is a critical step in Canada’s long-term development on the international stage.
Share Article