The Canadian men’s national soccer team got a pep talk from a hockey legend before their friendly against Venezuela on Tuesday.
Wayne Gretzky met with the Canadian men ahead of the match and was presented with a custom jersey by captain Stephen Eustáquio.
“I know you’re all excited about the upcoming World Cup, and we’re all excited to see you guys play,” Gretzky told the players after shaking many of their hands. “You should be very proud to represent our country and congratulations to all of your families.”
Gretzky said head coach Jesse Marsch invited him to meet the team at a practice but he joked “I didn’t even like going to practice when I played.” He said he didn’t play much soccer growing up but credited the Canadian players for boosting the sport’s popularity in the country.
The match against Venezuela, which was being played in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is the Canadian men’s final match of 2025. Next up is the draw for the World Cup on Dec. 5 before Canada co-hosts soccer’s biggest stage next summer.
