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 Canada coach Jen Herst. In light of Reda’s injury, Ottawa midfielder Felicia Hanisch has been called up as a replacement.
The Canadian squad, already without injured players Reese Kay and Joelle Bader, faced further challenges when Kaylee Hunter was summoned by the senior national team after AFC Toronto declined to release her for the U-17 championship. The team’s co-captains in Morocco now include defender Chloe Taylor and midfielder Olivia Chisholm.
Adding to the roster is 15-year-old attacker Melyna Alexis from Mascouche, Que., who has been described as a promising talent by Herst for her speed, technical ability, and penchant for one-on-one situations on the left flank.
Canada’s opening match is against Nigeria, scheduled for 3 p.m. ET on Sunday. Herst anticipates a tough encounter against the African team known for their speed and physicality. Nigeria’s striker, Shakirat Moshood, who netted four goals in the previous edition, poses a significant threat.
Following Nigeria, Canada will face tournament debutant Samoa on Oct. 22 and France on Oct. 25 in Group D matches at the Football Academy Mohammed VI in Sale. Herst is optimistic about Canada’s chances to progress beyond the group stage and is confident in the team’s ability to showcase exciting football and embody the Canadian spirit.
The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-place finishers, will advance to the round of 16. Canada has a history of strong performances in the tournament, having reached the quarterfinals in 2008, 2012, and 2014, and finishing fourth in 2018.
The Canadians qualified for the 2025 FIFA tournament by finishing unbeaten atop their CONCACAF qualifying group. With preparations including matches in Spain and Mexico earlier this year, Canada is geared up for a competitive showing in Morocco.
As the team acclimates to the conditions in Casablanca and navigates through a challenging group, they remain focused on their goal of making an impact at the prestigious tournament.
