Carlsberg Moments of the Month – January 2024

Bev Priestman signs new long-term contract with CANWNT

Bev Priestman’s extension as head coach of Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team until the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup provides continuity and support for the team’s pursuit of success, particularly in defending their Olympic gold at the Paris 2024 Games. Since her appointment in 2020, Priestman has emphasized player development, tactical innovation, and a winning mentality, contributing to a 28-9-10 record in 47 matches. The team will compete in the Concacaf W Gold Cup and the SheBelieves Cup in 2024.

Canada Soccer launches Free Kicks Grant to clubs across Canada

Canada Soccer, with Sport Canada funding, launches the Free Kicks Grant for community soccer clubs. Open for applications until February 14, 2024, the program provides $1000 to 100 selected clubs for Try It Events, promoting inclusivity for new-to-Canada participants. Events will be held from March 1 to May 31, 2024, aiming to celebrate inclusion within organized soccer. Details and application information can be found at https://canadasoccer.com/idea/.

Biello to lead CANMNT into crucial Copa América Qualifier

Mauro Biello will lead #CANMNT into crucial Copa América qualifier against Trinidad and Tobago on March 23. As Men’s National Team interim head coach, Biello aims to secure Canada’s spot in the 2024 Copa América. The winner joins Argentina, Peru and Chile in Group A. The match takes place at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, with the victor advancing to the tournament’s opening match against Argentina on June 20 in Atlanta, Georgia.

CANWNT to feature in 2024 SheBelievesCup

Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team is set to participate in the 2024 SheBelieves Cup, competing against the USA, Brazil, and Japan in a US-based tournament. The modified format includes four matches, with Canada facing Brazil in the Semifinals on April 6 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Head Coach Bev Priestman anticipates valuable competition, viewing it as preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

CANWNT and CANWNT players make January club transfers

Some key national team players made January club moves. Tajon Buchanan will become the first CANMNT player to appear in a Serie A match and Jessie Fleming’s transfer from Chelsea to Portland is a NWSL transfer fee record. CANMNT and CANWNT players who transferred in Winter transfer window*:

Maxime Crépeau > Portland Timbers
Kamal Miller > Portland Timbers
Tajon Buchanan > Inter Milan
Lucas Cavallini > Club Puebla

Nichelle Prince > KC Current
Bianca St-Georges > NC Courage
Shelina Zadorsky > West Ham United FC (on loan)
Jessie Fleming > Porland Thorns
Melissa Dagenias > SF Damaiense
*Players who were called into WNT and MNT camps in 2023