Jesse Marsch has gone with a flat 4-4-2, a shape that prioritises compactness in midfield and gives Jonathan David a striking partner in Cyle Larin. The notable name on the bench is Alphonso Davies, listed as a substitute rather than starting at left back, with Richie Laryea taking that role and Tajon Buchanan occupying the left midfield channel. Whether Davies is being managed carefully or is simply being kept in reserve for the second half, Marsch has opted for a more defensive left side to begin with.
Julen Lopetegui sets Qatar up in a 4-3-3, built around Akram Afif on the left flank. Afif is Qatar's most dangerous ball-carrier and will operate against Alistair Johnston at right back, which is the matchup that shapes the game. Johnston is an aggressive, high-energy defender, and how well he handles Afif's movement in behind will largely determine whether Canada's defensive shape holds. Assim Madibo and Issa Laye sit alongside Jassem Gaber Abdulsallam in a midfield three asked to protect against Canada's press and supply Edmilson Junior and Yusuf Abdurisag in the wider forward positions.