Maxime Crepeau is embracing the competition as Canada’s head coach, Jesse Marsch, mulls over the decision of choosing the national team’s primary goalkeeper. He is excited about the opportunity to showcase his skills in his hometown where he has deep roots.
The 26th-ranked Canadian men’s team will host the 25th-ranked Australia in a friendly match at Montreal’s Stade Saputo before taking on Colombia in Harrison, N.J., during the current FIFA international window.
Crepeau, a 31-year-old native of Candiac, Que., expressed his sentimental attachment to returning to his roots, emphasizing the significance of his upbringing and development within the local club. Having been a part of the national team for an extended period and a product of the Montreal academy, Crepeau patiently waited for his chance while Milan Borjan held the starting goalkeeper position for Canada.
Currently, Crepeau, representing the Portland Timbers, is in contention with Dayne St. Clair for the top goalkeeper spot as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Marsch hinted that both goalkeepers would receive playing time in the upcoming matches against Australia and Colombia.
Canada’s head coach aims to finalize the goalkeeper decision soon, intending to provide the chosen goalkeeper with a series of games leading up to the World Cup. Crepeau acknowledged the high stakes involved and highlighted the healthy competition between him and St. Clair.
Crepeau is poised to make his World Cup debut after missing out on the 2022 tournament due to a leg injury suffered while playing for LAFC. Marsch has emphasized that the competition is primarily between Crepeau and St. Clair, despite James Pantemis also being part of the squad.
With the return of the Canadian men’s team to Montreal after a prolonged absence, Crepeau reminisced about his journey from the Montreal Impact academy to stints with various MLS clubs before joining Portland last year. The upcoming friendly matches hold significance not only for Crepeau but also for the Quebec players named in the roster, showcasing the development of the game in the region.
Local fans can look forward to more opportunities to support the Canadian men’s team, as they are set to hold a final camp and exhibition match in Montreal before the World Cup in June.