The million dollar question was , will Alphonso Davies play for Canada or not, which was overshadowing Canada’s great run, in the 2026 World Cup . That question can be put to rest .

Davies made a historic return in Canada’s triumphant 1-0 win vs South Africa, as he entered in the 75th minute when the game was tied .

Playing in a more advanced position on the left side of Canada’s midfield, his impact was immediate. Davies’ introduction helped tilt the field; he created a scoring chance with one of his first involvements of the game, and he forced the South African defense to drop deep and retreat close to its own penalty box each time he got the ball and threatened to drive forward.

wasn’t perfect, but that’s to be expected for someone who’s played sparingly going back to his March 2025 ACL tear. Davies is clearly still not 100% fit. Some of his touches weren’t as crisp as they usually are, and he lacked his trademark burst of obscene pace. And yet, he still made an enormous difference. It was an important reminder of the world-class quality he possesses, and what Canada has been missing for over a year. Imagine the kind of boost he can provide if he can get anything close to 100% ahead of the next round.

There was a genuine danger that Canada wouldn’t go deep enough in the tournament for Davies to even get the opportunity to play after his latest hamstring setback in May. How cruel that would’ve been to the nation’s most talented and recognizable star. With Davies looking on and acting as a decoy for the opening three games, the squad did its part to stick around long enough for its captain to appear. Now, he has the opportunity to lift the team, and country, to even greater heights.