Celtic's Alistair Johnston and Canada forced to wait for World Cup first as ex-Rangers man plays big part

In front of an enthusiastic home crowd in Toronto, the co-hosts gave it everything in a really entertaining match in Group B. They recovered from a cheap concession in the first half and needed substitute Cyle Larin to rescue a point in 78 minutes.

All hope is not lost, as they have two matches remaining against Qatar and Switzerland. It could have been worse, as they looked unable to break down stern Bosnian resistance until manager Jesse Marsch turned to his bench and brought on Larin.

Canada dominated much of the match but were frustrated by some inspired Bosnia defending. Sergej Barbarez’s men showed how resolute they can be by knocking out both Wales and Italy on penalties in the play-offs. Once Jovo Lukic headed them in front on 21 minutes, they had a cause to fight for.

Canada had their chances. Jonathan David, their main striker, was kept quiet but good chances fell the way of Stephen Eustaquio, Liam Miller and Tanitoluwa Oluwaseyi. They all lacked composure at the vital moment.

Larin came on for the last half-hour with Promise David and the two combined to allow Larin to lash the ball home via a slight but unfortunate deflection off former Rangers defender Nikola Katic, who played well.

Larin so nearly landed a winner in stoppage time, but his netbound effort was blocked by a last-ditch block from Katic.

Another former Rangers man was in the Canada ranks. Derek Cornelius struggled with form and injury at Ibrox this season on loan from Marseille but was fit and firing here.

Celtic right-back Alistair Johnston also flew the SPFL flag and was booked within ten minutes for Canada for an errant lunge. He managed himself well thereafter.

The most winnable match in the group awaits both these teams. They will eye a success over Qatar to reach four points, the magic number for progress. For Canada, that could finally be the moment they grab a landmark result at the World Cup.