The Canadian women’s soccer team has two big tests coming up against Japan.
Little wonder, then, that coach John Herdman included star forward Christine Sinclair in his 20-player roster for the pair of high-profile friendlies against the reigning Women’s World Cup champions.
Also named to the Canadian squad, which was officially announced on Monday, were veterans Diana Matheson and Erin McLeod, as well as a handful of young prospects.
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Canada faces Japan on Oct. 25 in Edmonton before hosting the Asian powerhouse again three days later in Vancouver. These games are part of the Canadian team’s preparations for next summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup that will be staged in Canada.
“We’ve brought players that have that experience but also have that blend of youth,” Herdman said in a news release.
“I think that it’s an important feature as we look for the right group that will take us through the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015.”
Canada is ranked eighth in the world. Japan is third.
CANADA’S ROSTER
Goalkeepers: Stephanie Labbe (KIF Orebro/SWE) and Erin McLeod (Houston Dash).
Defenders: Kadeisha Buchanan (West Virginia University ), Allysha Chapman (Eskilstuna United/SWE), Rhian Wilkinson (Comètes de Laval), Sura Yekka (Brams United ), Emily Zurrer (Jitex BK /SWE), Carmelina Moscato (Seattle Reign FC) and Rachel Quon (Chicago Red Stars ).
Midfielders: Jessie Fleming (London NorWest SC ), Kaylyn Kyle (Houston Dash ), Ashley Lawrence (West Virginia University ), Diana Matheson (Washington Spirit ), Sophie Schmidt (Sky Blue FC ) and Desiree Scott (Notts County FC/ENG).
Forwards: Adriana Leon (Chicago Stars ), Christine Sinclair (Portland Thorns ), Melissa Tancredi (Chicago Red Stars), Josée Bélanger (Comètes de Laval ) and Jonelle Filigno (Sky Blue FC)