What to watch: How Canada can punch World Cup ticket vs. El Salvador

Canada is unquestionably the best story in FIFA World Cup qualifying, after recording consecutive 2-0 victories over Honduras and United States last week.

Despite missing superstar Alphonso Davies due to myocarditis, the Canadians haven’t missed a beat and appear well on their way to clinching their first World Cup appearance since 1986.

Here’s what you need to know about Canada’s match against El Salvador on Wednesday.

Canada vs. El Salvador

Wednesday, February 2 at 9:00 PM | Live stream

With just four matches remaining, Canada sits atop the CONCACAF table and though it’s an improbable combination, it’s indeed possible that it could clinch its ticket to Qatar on Wednesday night.

Here’s what needs to happen for Canada to secure its World Cup bid on Wednesday:

• Canada defeats El Salvador

• Costa Rica loses or draws vs. Jamaica

• United States loses to Honduras

• Panama loses to Mexico

If this parlay of circumstances has you uneasy, rest assured that even if Canada doesn’t get the result it desires Wednesday, it’s a near-lock at this point.

In case you missed last week’s games, Canada is firing on all cylinders. Milan Borjan has been phenomenal when counted upon, making highlight-reel saves to preserve the lead in both of his team’s wins last week. It’s worth checking out, in case you missed it. Alistair Johnston completely neutralized United States star Christian Pulisic on Sunday, and it’s not hyperbolic to suggest that he’s been in world-class form lately.

Up front, Cyle Larin broke Canada’s men’s all-time goal-scoring record with his opening marker against the United States and has formed a lethal partnership with Jonathan David, whose anticipatory runs, pace and strength have given CONCACAF defences splitting headaches. Larin and David will likely be supported by Tajon Buchanan, who put on a dribbling exhibition against Honduras and played a complete game against the United States, tracking back admirably, while Junior Hoilett may come off the bench to provide some extra punch late in the contest.

As for El Salvador, well, its chances to defeat Canada at home appear to be slim and grim, having registered nine points through 10 matches, currently in sixth place. But it hasn’t been all bad news lately, as Nelson Bonilla and Darwin Ceren notched goals in a 2-0 win against Honduras on Sunday. Canada previously defeated El Salvador 3-0 on Sept. 8, and though crazier things have certainly happened in CONCACAF, expect the Canadians to win this one comfortably.

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