Alistair Johnston
CanadaDefenderCelticAlistair Johnston goes into World Cup 2026 as a defensive option with tournament responsibility for Canada. He brings 56 caps and 1 goal into the tournament. Celtic provides his recent club rhythm before the tournament. The focus is duel timing, compact spacing, set-piece defending and the first pass out.
Group B
Jun 12, 2026vs Bosnia and Herzegovina - 3:00 PM EDT
Quick Facts
Alistair Johnston and Canada World Cup 2026 Squad
Canada selected Alistair Johnston for World Cup 2026 with a clear football task. As a defender, he can hold the line, defend crosses and move the ball without inviting pressure.
Johnston is part of a group of 9 defenders, so the opponent and match state can affect his minutes.
International Record
Alistair Johnston brings 56 caps and 1 goal into the tournament.
Johnston's record points to trust over time, but Canada will still judge the details of each match.
International Record
- International record: Alistair Johnston enters the tournament with 56 caps and 1 goal for Canada.
- World Cup 2026 role: Canada list Alistair Johnston as a defender, with minutes linked to form, workload and game state.
- Group opponents: Canada face Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar and Switzerland in the group stage.
Playing Style and Strengths
Johnston's World Cup value starts with duel timing, compact spacing, set-piece defending and the first pass out.
On the ball, Johnston's decisions matter because one loose pass can expose the back line.
- Duel timing
- Compact spacing
- Set-piece defending
- First pass out
- Cover runs
- Box protection
World Cup 2026 Fixtures
Canada start against Bosnia and Herzegovina on 12 June 2026 in Toronto. For Johnston, the first match is a direct test of match rhythm and role clarity.
Qatar follow on 18 June 2026 in Vancouver. For Johnston, the second fixture can quickly change the selection picture if the opener leaves Canada chasing points or protecting workload.
| Kickoff | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 12, 20263:00 PM EDT | Bosnia and Herzegovina | Toronto Stadium, Toronto |
| Jun 18, 20263:00 PM PDT |  Qatar | BC Place Vancouver, Vancouver |
| Jun 24, 202612:00 PM PDT |  Switzerland | BC Place Vancouver, Vancouver |
Dates and kickoff times above are shown in the venue timezone.
Recent Form
Alistair Johnston played 7 Premiership matches for Celtic in 2025/26, scoring 0 goals and providing 1 assist.
Johnston's latest checked appearance came on June 2, 2026, with 45 minutes in Canada versus Uzbekistan.
Career Stats
Alistair Johnston brings 56 caps and 1 goal into the tournament.
For Canada, the numbers guide the selection picture, but they do not replace match readiness. The opener still has to fit Johnston's form and the opponent's plan.
| Field | Verified value |
|---|---|
| Team | Canada |
| Position | Defender |
| Club | Celtic |
| Caps | 56 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Born | Verified locally |
World Cup 2026 Role
Alistair Johnston enters World Cup 2026 with Canada as a defender. The senior record stands at 56 caps and 1 goal. Match role, form and group-stage needs will shape his minutes.
Canada will judge him through training rhythm before the tournament. The useful signs are duel timing, spacing and the first pass forward.
Canada start against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Jun 12, 2026 in Toronto. Qatar and Switzerland come next in the group. The match order can affect workload and selection.
FAQ
Is Alistair Johnston in the Canada World Cup 2026 squad?
Yes. Alistair Johnston is in Canada's World Cup 2026 squad in the checked player data.
What position does Alistair Johnston play?
He is listed as a defender for Canada.
How many international caps and goals does Alistair Johnston have?
He enters World Cup 2026 with 56 caps and 1 goal for Canada.
Who are Canada's World Cup 2026 group opponents?
Canada face Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar and Switzerland in the group stage.
When is Alistair Johnston's first World Cup 2026 match?
Canada start against Bosnia and Herzegovina on 12 June 2026 in Toronto.
What is Alistair Johnston's latest club form?
He plays for Celtic in the checked player facts.
More Canada World Cup 2026 Player Profiles
Explore more Canada squad profiles, including teammates who can share minutes, supply service or affect the same match plan.
Group B Table
| # | Team | P | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Switzerland | 3 | 4 | 7 |
| 2 | Canada | 3 | 5 | 4 |
| 3 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 3 | -1 | 4 |
| 4 | Qatar | 3 | -8 | 1 |