Canada international Tani Oluwaseyi has admitted that his team lost some of its intensity after building a three-goal advantage against Guatemala, describing the two goals conceded as sloppy mistakes despite the eventual 3-2 victory in their CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final encounter.
Speaking after the match, Oluwaseyi acknowledged that Canada could have managed the game better but emphasised the importance of securing a victory in a difficult away environment.
“We probably took our foot off the gas a little bit too much. Two sloppy goals on our part. But, at the end of the day, to come to an environment like this and get a win is big,” he said.
The forward also reflected on the emotional setback of losing captain Alphonso Davies to an early injury, expressing disappointment over the defender’s latest fitness setback after his efforts to return to action.
Oluwaseyi said the squad was excited to have Davies back but admitted that his early departure was difficult for the team.
“We were all so excited to see Fonsi back. For him to go down that early, we’re just gutted for him. We know how hard he’s worked to get back fit and how well he’s played for his club. So, it’s tough,” he added.
However, the Canadian international praised the team’s collective mentality, highlighting how the players responded to the captain’s absence despite an extensive injury list.
According to Oluwaseyi, Canada currently have between eight and 10 players sidelined through injuries, making the team’s ability to produce a strong performance and secure the victory even more significant.
He maintained that the squad’s next-man-up mentality remains central to its ability to overcome personnel challenges.
Reflecting on his goal, Oluwaseyi credited teammate Jonathan David for the assist, describing his finish as a routine responsibility for a striker. He also admitted that there were aspects of his second-half performance he believed he could have handled better.
Nevertheless, the forward welcomed getting back on the scoresheet for Canada and reaffirmed his determination to keep contributing to the national team.
Canada will now turn their attention to Monday’s next fixture, hoping to build on the hard-fought victory while addressing the lapses that allowed Guatemala back into the contest.
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