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The 2026 World Cup seems many miles and a lifetime away for the youngsters happily training in Friday’s more pleasant temperatures on the soccer fields at Tecumseh’s Green Acres Park.

The reality is it isn’t, so preparations now will help the Canadian men’s team avoid a face plant on one of the world’s largest sporting stages. The host country traditionally gets an automatic entry to the tournament. With three countries — the U.S., Canada and Mexico — hosting in 2026 and the field of teams expanding, it’s generally believed that Canada will get an automatic entry.

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The last time Canada qualified for the World Cup was 1986.

“The players in the Canadian national will need kids, some who are 12 years old now, to develop for 2026 and perhaps more likely the World Cup after,” said Rene Van Baren, head of club and staff development for the Dutch Football Association.

“2026 is a great opportunity to grow soccer and encourage kids to play. If it’s started now, you’re going to see results by 2026.”