Jesse Marsch congratulates his players after Canada's historic World Cup victory: "You are Canadian heroes"

Image

After the second Canadian goal against Qatar, Jesse Marsch had already caused a sensation by celebrating with an enthusiastic gesture on the edge of the field. This Sunday in Los Angeles, the coach of the Canada team confirmed his passionate temperament. A few minutes after the overtime victory over South Africa, Stephen Eustaquio offering qualification to the round of 16 for the Canadians, Marsch gathered his 26 players and staff in a warm circle on the pitch. Wearing a sweater emblazoned with the national team logo, which he kissed as a sign of pride, the American coach declared to his players that they had become “Canadian heroes” following the first success in Canada's history in the knockout phase of a World Cup. “Think about the two years we spent together, the principles we followed: staying true to our plan, playing aggressively, showing our character. You are Canadian heroes for future generations who will be interested in football here. You must be proud of yourself, of this sport. You gave it your all, moment after moment. » This moment, captured live by the cameras, testifies to the sincere commitment of Marsch, often criticized but faithful to his convictions. Asked about this speech at a press conference, he responded frankly: “Some say it’s staged. I don't really care. All I care about is my team and what we accomplish

let's together. » The coach also explained why he wanted to hold this gathering on the field and not in the locker room: after the match, the players are immediately contacted by the media, which prevents a real moment of discussion. Marsch wanted to mark his attachment to the historic moment and emphasize its importance for the development of football in Canada. This strong link between the American coach and his selection is all the more remarkable in a context of political tensions between the United States and Canada. Marsch, a Wisconsin native and former assistant to the American selection, is often accused of feigned patriotism. He fully embraces his love for his Canadian team: “I am American and am proud of it, but the values ​​of the Canadians correspond a lot to my personality: kindness, generosity, welcoming others. » He admitted that his way of doing things could sometimes seem excessive, but he does not plan to worry about it. Marsch also shed light on the personal fate of decisive scorer Stephen Eustaquio, who recently lost his parents. “Steph is a pillar of this team, an exceptional man who fully deserves this moment. I'm happy for him, and I think his parents must be proud of him where they are. » On the sporting side, Alphonso Davies, absent for seven weeks with an adductor injury, returned in force, creating several chances and energizing the Canadian game. The prodigy

from Bayern Munich, 25, should start on Saturday in Houston against the Netherlands or Morocco in the round of 16. Despite everything, Marsch remains the conductor of this Canadian selection, faithful to his method and his passion, regardless of criticism and outside eyes.