Ahead of the Concacaf Nations League semifinals starting on March 20 on Paramount+, the coaches of Canada, Mexico, and Panama, along with United States representative Oguchi Onyewu, participated in a media panel on Wednesday to preview the event. Canada’s head coach, American Jesse Marsch, shared his thoughts on the current political climate between Canada and the United States.
President Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested Canada becoming the 51st state since his second term began in January, a topic that has surfaced during international competitions between the two nations. Following Canada’s overtime victory against Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off Championship, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted a celebratory message on X.
‘You can’t take our country — and you can’t take our game,’ Trudeau stated.
Marsch continued this sentiment in his preparation for the Concacaf Nations League, emphasizing that it’s about more than just soccer as his team aims to end the USMNT’s streak of three consecutive Nations League wins. He also reflected on the significance of the hockey game.
‘These international tournaments now carry a different weight for Canada. As an American, I must address the 51st state discussion, which I find disturbing and frankly offensive. Canada is a robust, independent nation deeply rooted in decency, valuing high ethics and respect, unlike the polarized, disrespectful, and often hate-filled environment in the United States,’ Marsch commented.
‘My message to our president is to stop the absurd talk of Canada becoming the 51st state. As an American, I am ashamed of the arrogance and disrespect we have shown to one of our oldest, strongest, and most loyal allies. Looking ahead to the next month, I know this will motivate our team, strengthen our mentality and will to represent our country, and intensify our desire to excel in this tournament and demonstrate Canadian character both on and off the field. I eagerly anticipate the challenge of playing Mexico and the entire tournament. I assure you, our team will be prepared.’
This unity will provide the Canucks with added motivation as they prepare for the tournament. They have shown significant improvement, and with Marsch leading, they are even incorporating new dual nationals like Daniel Jebbison to enhance team depth and push further. They achieved a surprising fourth place at the Copa America last summer, greatly exceeding expectations.
‘Canada deeply values fairness and I’ve learned as national team coach that people genuinely believe their differences strengthen them. This is one of the most enjoyable aspects of our team – they embody this as individuals and as a team,’ he said.
‘They are predominantly first and second-generation Canadians from diverse backgrounds and cultures, but they are uniquely and incredibly proud to be Canadian, to represent their country, to give their all for each other, to cherish their camaraderie, and to compete for their nation.’
Onyewu, the U.S. Soccer vice president of sporting, when asked about Marsch’s remarks, stated his focus was on promoting the Nations League, SoFi Stadium—the venue for the semifinals and final—and the competition that the USMNT will face.
‘My primary focus, and that of the U.S., is the upcoming competition and hopefully returning as four-time champions,’ Onyewu said.
To achieve this, a potential final against Canada is possible, a moment that would be significant not only for Marsch’s personal connections to the USMNT but also for broader implications beyond soccer.
Mexico manager Javier Aguirre chimes in
Trump also signed an executive order renaming the ‘Gulf of Mexico’ to the ‘Gulf of America,’ which Mexican head coach Javier Aguirre disagrees with. This change is limited to domestic federal references, as other countries are not obligated to recognize the name, given its shared nature between the United States and Mexico.
‘Since my football debut 50 years ago, the message has always been gratitude. Support is expressed on the field, making people feel represented. As a son of immigrants, I understand the difficulty of leaving one’s country in search of a better life for loved ones,’ Aguirre said. ‘It’s challenging. I recall my parents’ struggles after the war, and similar situations exist here. I deeply empathize with those seeking a better life, pursuing the American dream with respect and gratitude for the support. This has been my approach for nearly 50 years, and I will continue.’
‘I have great respect for Mexicans, their children, and grandchildren here supporting us. We hope to bring them some joy that day. Regarding other matters, I lack the authority or capacity to comment… Though, for me, it remains the Gulf of Mexico.’
