PREVIEW: Canada readies for Ghana test in international friendly

Canada are set to put its on-field preparation to the test against an experienced Ghanaian side Tuesday night at RFK Stadium in Washington, DC.

For the Canadian program, the Ghana match represents an important milestone as it builds towards a pair of crucial 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Qualifiers matches this November.

The Canadian squad understands it is in for a robust challenge from FIFA world number 25 Ghana who are fresh off an appearance in the finals of the 2015 African Cup of Nations.

“What you see normally from Ghana are athletic players, technically good, strong,” said veteran Canadian defender Andre Hainault. “We expect them to be sharp in their tactics and disciplined. We know they’re going to be physically strong and technically good so we’ll have our work cut out for us. If we play with the ideas that have been plugged into us this week and the work we’ve completed with Benito over the past few years we can definitely get a result.”

Canada has welcomed a number of new faces ahead of Tuesday’s match, including five players who will be looking to make their first appearance with the national team. Integration of the new players started with a lively six day camp in Orlando and two focused training sessions held in Washington, DC ahead of Tuesday’s match.

“There have been a lot of new guys having their first camp, I have to say I’ve liked what I’m seen from a lot them, obviously guys with some good experience, and some younger guys willing to listen and to learn and try, it’s been a breath of fresh air,” said Hainault.

Head Coach Benito Floro joined the team in Washington DC on Sunday following his time leading the Canadian Men’s U-23 Team at the CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying tournament.

Having imparted his final instructions during Monday’s training session in DC, Floro has now returned to Salt Lake, Utah where he’ll guide Canada in its clash against the United States with progression in Qualification to Rio 2016 on the line.

The Ghana match represents an opportunity for several members of Canada’s youthful roster to make a mark as the team gears up for the November matches.

Canada’s road to Russia 2018 resumes with a massive group opener against rivals Honduras at BC Place in Vancouver on 13 November.