The Canadian men’s soccer team had a friendly match against Panama scheduled for today (5), at 8 p.m., but the match, which would take place in Vancouver, was canceled due to a team strike, which calls for improvements in the administration of football. in the country. .

Journalist Rick Westhead states that “the team went on strike over player pay issues”. On Twitter, the Canadian Football Federation only reported that the game had been called off.

“The Canada Men’s National Soccer Team International Friendly match scheduled for Sunday June 5th at BC Place has been cancelled. Further details will be provided to all ticket purchasers,” the federation wrote on Twitter.

The international friendly match against Panama is part of Canada’s preparation for the World Cup, a competition in which Canada has secured a place, and which the country has not played in 36 years.

The Canadian team has issued a note in which they apologize to their supporters for the cancellation of the game, as well as to the federation, players, coaching staff, staff and Panamanian fans.

The published letter also explains the reasons for not participating in the game. Among other elements, the main requirements are as follows:

• Leadership that can maximize the positive moment of selection and generate sponsorship revenue, for the evolution of the sport in the country;
• A fair distribution of income with the women’s team, including the same percentage for participation prizes in the World Cup in which they will participate;
• Development of the National Women’s Football League;
• Participation prizes comprising 40% of the revenue from participation in the 2022 World Cup;
• Inclusion of more former players in the Canada Soccer structure.