Canada’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign has been hit with a setback as co-captain Emma Reda sustained an injury during training. The 16-year-old midfielder, hailing from Woodbridge, Ont., and daughter of former Canadian international Marco Reda, fractured her ulna while attempting a slide tackle to regain possession, according to head coach Jen Herst. In light of this, Ottawa midfielder Felicia Hanisch has been called up to replace Reda. The Canadian squad was already without the injured Reese Kay and Joelle Bader, with Kaylee Hunter being promoted to the senior team after AFC Toronto declined to release her for the U-17 championship. The team’s other co-captains in Morocco are defender Chloe Taylor and midfielder Olivia Chisholm.
Among the notable players on the Canadian roster is 15-year-old attacker Melyna Alexis from Mascouche, Que., whom Herst describes as a promising talent with speed and technical ability, particularly excelling in one-on-one situations on the left flank.
Looking ahead to their opening match against Nigeria on Sunday, Herst anticipates a tough challenge from the African side known for their speed and physicality, with a penchant for long-range shots. Nigeria’s attack will be led by striker Shakirat Moshood, who scored four goals in the previous tournament.
Canada’s remaining Group D matches will be against Samoa on October 22 and France on October 25, all to be played at the Football Academy Mohammed VI in Sale. Herst expressed confidence in her team’s ability to advance from the group stage, promising an exciting brand of football and showcasing the resilient Canadian spirit. The top two teams from each group, along with the best four third-place finishers, will progress to the round of 16.
This year’s tournament will see defending champions North Korea and perennial contenders like Spain, Nigeria, France, and Samoa vying for the title. Each team brings its own history and strengths to the competition, setting the stage for an intense and thrilling FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.