There was a time when Jesse Marsch thought he was about to take over as head coach of the U.S. men’s national team. Instead, he’s leading Canada to the Round of 16 in a World Cup for the nation’s first time ever.
He could not have been prouder of his players, and he let them know just that.
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After finishing second in its group, Canada missed out on a potential four straight matches in Vancouver and had to play the program’s first World Cup knockout round match in the U.S. at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium on Sunday.
Yet, the distance from the co-hosting nation didn’t harm the effort in the end. Canada finally broke through with the winner on a Stephen Eustáquio goal in the 92nd minute.
When the final whistle sounded in Canada’s 1-0 win, Marsch huddled his players and delivered an incredible post-match speech. Mics picked up every word.
What Marsch told his players after the win
The Canada coach could be heard saying:
“Think about the two years we’ve been together. Think about how we talked about sticking to the plan, sticking to who we want to be, playing aggressive, accessing the quality. You guys showing your character. You guys are Canadian heroes. Canadian heroes! Canadian heroes for the future children of this country who play this sport. This sport has a big future because of you guys! You should be so proud of who you are. You should be so proud of this game! You never lost belief. You went after it. Point after point, moment after moment.
“You are Canadian heroes!”
Canada now awaits the winner of Netherlands vs. Morocco for the Round of 16 in Houston on July 4.
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This article originally appeared on For The Win: What Jesse Marsch said in his speech after Canada’s historic World Cup knockout win
