Canada is at the World Cup for the first time in 36 years. A big one for Super League player Liam Miller too.
On March 27 this year, something historic happened in Toronto. Canada qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 36 years – and only its second – with a 4-0 win over Jamaica. In the middle of the excitement cluster: Liam Miller.
The Basel winger has been part of an extended squad since making his national team debut four and a half years ago. He watched the game against Jamaica from the bench for 90 minutes. In Canada’s successful World Cup campaign, the 23-year-old lost four matches (a total of 207 minutes).
“I’m an alternate for Canada. I’m fine with that. I’m still young and I can still improve,” says Miller, a dream come true by being named to the 26-man World Cup squad.
We have nothing to lose in Qatar and we want to trouble other teams.
In his second season at Basel, Miller is still finding his nose for goals. He did not score in 14 SL games. The Canadian scored 7 league goals last season. Even with the national team, Miller still has zero goals after a total of 16 appearances. Of course, it would be a huge thing for him if the ball hits the goal in Qatar, of all places.
Miller attests to his team’s ability to spring a surprise in a group with Belgium, Croatia and Morocco. “We have nothing to lose in Qatar and we want to trouble other teams. Of course we want to improve, but we’re not expected to,” Miller analyzed Canada’s starting position.
In their first World Cup finals in 36 years, England coach John Herdmann’s men will look to shine with attacking, ball-oriented football. Miller even calls Canada’s style of play “unique.”
36 is 4 years
Miller would be surprised if he progresses beyond a reserve role in the finals. But he doesn’t argue with that. He said: “The team is very important to me. I want to play the role given by the coach to the best of my ability. It doesn’t matter if I play from the start, as a substitute or not.”
One thing is clear: Canada will not have to wait another 36 years for the next final after the World Cup in Qatar. Because the 2026 tournament will be hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada. This means the team around Bayern star Alphonso Davies automatically qualifies as co-hosts. “It’s a huge honor to play in front of your own fans all four years,” Miller said.
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