Political unrest across the US and discussions about shifting matches away from Mexico can mean Canada's role as a co-host for the 2026 World Cup slips from view.

"Canada often fades into the background and we accept that," Canadian football journalist Har Johal told BBC Sport. "We stay courteous, offer a smile and let the nations to the south claim the spotlight."

Yet beneath that courteous image lies firm conviction that what many view as Canada's finest men's football side can finally make an impact globally this summer, beginning with their opener versus Bosnia-Herzegovina (Friday, 20:00 BST).

Away from the pitch, Canada has sidestepped the transport cost concerns seen in parts of the US because both Vancouver and Toronto host matches in central venues.

Ticketing challenges remain identical elsewhere due to Fifa's pricing model, and accommodation costs are high, with downtown Vancouver hotels charging over $1,000 nightly during the tournament and some exceeding $2,000 on match days.

The average downtown hotel rate during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver stood at $359 per night. Prices have risen by more than 300 percent in certain instances compared with standard 2025 levels.

On the pitch this marks Canada's third men's World Cup appearance after 1986 and 2022. Their record remains modest with six matches, six defeats, two goals scored and 12 conceded.

They entered Qatar 2022 as possible outsiders after a strong qualifying run yet struggled in a demanding group with Belgium, Croatia and Morocco, the last two of whom reached the semi-finals.

Four years later, with added senior international exposure and home support, Johal notes rising belief that Canada could be a side to follow.

"The schedule works well but progress has been steady for Canada as more players feature in Europe and the talent pool is evident," she said. "Expectations were elevated at Qatar and remain so again this year.

"Excitement is growing and support for Team Canada builds daily.

"This group stands out as the strongest Canadian side in history."

On paper Canada's group looks more manageable. They meet Switzerland, Qatar and Bosnia-Herzegovina, the last of whom defeated Italy on penalties to qualify.

"Observers suggest Canada could top the section, especially after Italy faltered," says Johal. "The Swiss may now pose the main threat."

That optimism has not been fully reflected in recent form. Canada exited the Concacaf Gold Cup after a quarter-final penalty loss to Guatemala, while friendly outcomes have varied.

The March window brought successive draws with Iceland and Tunisia in Toronto.

Goals have also proved scarce, with Canada failing to score in four of their previous nine outings. Manager Jesse Marsch therefore has work to do if the co-hosts are to meet expectations.

While Marsch seeks his strongest lineup he will hope star man Alphonso Davies returns soon despite missing the opener through injury.

A 21-year-old at Qatar 2022, Davies had a mixed showing that included a missed penalty in the opening defeat to Belgium before he became the first Canadian man to score at a World Cup against Croatia in a 4-1 loss.

Now 25, Davies captains Canada and ranks as their top player yet has missed 15 Bayern Munich games this season with injury.

He sat out the March internationals with a hamstring issue but aims to feature at some stage of the World Cup, offering a huge lift for his nation.

"We watched Davies return and score for Bayern and he remains central," added Johal. "Davies is undoubtedly the face of the team though injuries have limited his visibility."

Davies, Juventus forward Jonathan David and Villarreal midfielder Tajon Buchanan anchor Canada's standout generation. Should all three stay fit and sharp the side can challenge.

Toronto and Canada midfielder Jonathan Osorio credits the rise in football's popularity for lifting standards.

He told BBC World Service: "Broadcasts of foreign leagues on television here played a part.

"Success by Canadian MLS clubs also contributed and these factors encouraged the next generation to aim high and believe they could help Canada reach an elite level.

"Grassroots structures improved and the sport overall advanced, allowing us to finally qualify for a World Cup.

"This squad reflects Canada more than any other national team across sports because it showcases our diversity."

"Success means advancing from the group or even winning it," Johal said on what would constitute a strong World Cup for a nation without a victory.

"They possess the quality to achieve it and are competitive across the pitch. Hosting offers the ideal chance to secure that first win. Failure to progress would bring major consequences."

The first likely casualty would be former Leeds manager Marsch, appointed in May 2024 to guide Canada at their home tournament.

Though his standing in England is mixed after being dismissed by Leeds during their 2022-23 relegation battle, he remains popular in Canada for his team approach and candid style.

"His style is intense and physical which matches our strengths," said Osorio. "It still allows for attractive and assured play.

"The fit has been ideal and his top-level experience has already boosted many players' growth.

"This is probably our best squad ever and the depth is greater than before."

Marsch, an American, rejected speculation he might leave Canada for the USA role in 2024 before Mauricio Pochettino took charge. He also labelled US President Donald Trump's remarks about annexing Canada as "ridiculous".

"Supporters value Marsch's direct manner," said Johal. "He speaks openly and provides detailed answers in press settings, offering consistency."

On an American leading Canada she added: "Fans simply want results.

"Canada play with aggression, hold possession and press forward. The approach echoes hockey with its physicality and speed.

"Players show no reluctance to compete and several cards would not surprise as they refuse to be dominated."

Expect a competitive edge rather than excessive politeness, even from a Canadian side.