Canada vs. the U.S.: The goal will be to avenge the Olympic loss

Just a few weeks ago at the Winter Olympics, the Canadian women's hockey team lost the gold medal game to the United States 2–1 in overtime. Three days later, the Canadian men's team lost the gold medal game to the Americans by the same score, also in overtime. And now it's time for round three of the rivalry and a chance for revenge for the Maple Leafs, as Canada has advanced past the preliminary round of the World Baseball Classic for the first time in the history of the national program.

Canada secured its spot in the quarterfinals with a 7-2 victory over Cuba on Wednesday, which earned it first place in Group A. Since the United States, led by manager Mark DeRosa, struggled in their final game against Italy, they finished second in their pool and will pose a tougher challenge than expected for the Canadians.

“Baseball in Canada has come a long way… It'll be a fun matchup. Canada seems to take the underdog mentality when it comes to baseball. They're grinders.”John Schneider on USA vs. Canada in the #WorldBaseballClassic quarterfinals. pic.twitter.com/FRIiV52nzE — Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) March 12, 2026

Admittedly, at first glance, it's David versus Goliath, as Toronto Blue Jays general manager John Schneider points out, though he insists that Canada should not be overlooked.

I know Canada seems to have an underdog mentality when it comes to baseball, but they're tough, man. I love that. They're a great team, too. Baseball in Canada has really come a long way. When you look at their lineup with the Naylor brothers, Tyler O'Neill, Otto Lopez—guys who've had significant time in the Majors during their careers. It's going to be a fun matchup.

The first pitch of this highly anticipated game is scheduled for 8 p.m. (Quebec time) tonight (Friday). Michael Soroka will be on the mound for Canada, while Logan Webb will start for Team USA. Will the Americans win the game 2-1 in extra innings?

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