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Canada Coach Claims Players Sing Anthem, Dempsey Calls Disrespectful

6/14/2026

50 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Dempsey Rejects Anthem

June 11, Canada coach Jesse Marsch said his players belt out the anthem, unlike U.S. players.
U.S. star Clint Dempsey called the comment disrespectful on Fox and said he cannot take Marsch seriously.
Dempsey said he never sang, placed his hand over his heart, and has played through a nose injury and heart surgeries.
Canada opened the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, adding rivalry.

Summary

Marsch Leads Canada

John Marsch became the first American to coach Canada’s men’s national team in May 2024.
Canada earned its first World Cup point on June 12 2026, drawing 1-1 with Bosnia after Luka Lukic’s header and Cyle Larin’s equaliser under Marsch.
Marsch, passed over for the United States (U.S.) head-coach job in 2023, criticized U.S. Soccer while Thierry Henry defended Canada and urged proof of its potential.

Summary

USA VAR Review

A historic ‘Mistaken Identity’ VAR review was issued during the United States’ 4-1 win over Paraguay, the first such decision in World Cup history.
Security forces stopped a fan who tried to breach the pitch at Los Angeles Stadium during the USA-Paraguay match.
Since 2024, coach Jesse Marsch has a 12-12-5 record with Canada across all competitions.
Two suspects were arrested over an England World Cup merchandise incident, raising security concerns.

History

Historical Context

The United States hosted the 1994 FIFA World Cup from June 17 to July 17, drawing a record 3,587,538 spectators and sparking a surge in American soccer participation. Brazil won the final on penalties, earning its fourth title. Building on that legacy, the 2026 tournament will be co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, where coach Jesse Marsch’s anthem demand has clashed with veteran Clint Dempsey’s stance.

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Dempsey Rejects Anthem

June 11, Canada coach Jesse Marsch said his players belt out the anthem, unlike U.S. players.
U.S. star Clint Dempsey called the comment disrespectful on Fox and said he cannot take Marsch seriously.
Dempsey said he never sang, placed his hand over his heart, and has played through a nose injury and heart surgeries.
Canada opened the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, adding rivalry.

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