Maxime Crepeau is eagerly anticipating the challenge as Canada coach Jesse Marsch deliberates on who will be the nation’s top goalkeeper. The 31-year-old Quebec native expressed his excitement about returning to his roots and making an impact in the place where his soccer journey began.
Ranked 26th, the Canadian men’s team will face off against 25th-ranked Australia in a friendly match at Montreal’s Stade Saputo, followed by a game against Colombia in Harrison, N.J. Crepeau, a former Montreal academy player and a key member of the national team, has patiently waited for his opportunity while Milan Borjan held the starting goalkeeper position.
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Crepeau finds himself in a battle with Dayne St. Clair, the Portland Timbers goalkeeper, for the coveted spot between the posts. Marsch hinted that both Crepeau and St. Clair will get a chance to showcase their skills in the upcoming matches.
Marsch aims to finalize his decision on the starting goalkeeper soon, intending to provide the chosen player with a consistent run of games leading up to the World Cup. Crepeau acknowledged the significance of the upcoming matches in determining their fate and emphasized the competitive spirit driving both goalkeepers.
Despite missing out on the 2022 World Cup due to a leg injury, Crepeau is determined to secure his spot for the upcoming tournament. While James Pantemis joins the squad for this window, Marsch has emphasized that the competition primarily revolves around Crepeau and St. Clair.
St. Clair, recognized for his standout performances in the MLS, and Crepeau, vying for the starting role in Portland, are locked in a tight competition. The return of the Canadian men’s team to Montreal holds special significance for Crepeau, who reflects on his journey from the Impact’s academy to his current position in the national team.
The presence of several Quebec players on the roster, alongside Crepeau, underscores the growth of soccer talent in the region. Marsch commended the development of the game at the grassroots level in Montreal and Quebec.
Local fans can anticipate another opportunity to support the Canadian men’s team sooner, as Canada is set to hold a camp and exhibition match in early June before the World Cup.
