Canadian women's soccer team faces crucial decision day at 2024 Olympics
NICE, France – The Canadian women’s soccer team awaits a pivotal ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) that could significantly impact their fate at the 2024 Olympics. The decision, expected by midday on Wednesday, will come mere hours before their crucial match against Colombia.
Juan M Pérez
7/30/20242 min read
The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canada Soccer have challenged FIFA's decision to deduct six points from the team after a member of their coaching staff was found guilty of spying on an opponent. The appeal argues that the punishment unjustly affects the athletes who had no involvement in the incident.
In the initial ruling, head coach Bev Priestman, assistant coach Jasmine Mander, and analyst Joseph Lombardi were suspended for one year, and Canada Soccer was fined $313,000. This came after French authorities linked a drone, spotted over a New Zealand women’s team practice, to Lombardi. Despite these penalties, the appeal only seeks to address the six-point deduction.
A hearing is expected to take place on Tuesday, with CAS set to deliver its verdict by Wednesday afternoon, just hours before Canada’s must-win game against Colombia, scheduled for 9 p.m. local time in Nice.
In a show of support, two-time Canadian Olympic trampoline champion Rosie MacLennan expressed her solidarity with the team on social media, and the Canadian Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission praised the team’s resilience amidst the recent turmoil.
The sanctions have placed Canada in a precarious position. Despite winning their first two matches, the six-point deduction currently leaves them with zero points. To secure a spot in the final-eight knockout stage, Canada must defeat Colombia on Wednesday. Additionally, they will need New Zealand, who have lost both of their matches, to either win or draw against France in a match taking place simultaneously in Lyon.
If Canada wins and New Zealand upsets France, Canada will top the group. If Canada wins and France wins or draws, Canada will secure second place. However, a loss or draw against Colombia, combined with the upholding of the sanction, would eliminate Canada from the tournament.
The stakes are high, and the team’s Olympic journey hinges on both the outcome of their appeal and their performance on the field. The support from fans and fellow athletes underscores the unity and determination within the Canadian camp as they face one of their most challenging days in recent memory.
Wednesday's match will be a test of not just skill, but resilience and spirit, as Canada fights to keep their Olympic dreams alive.