As the Gold Cup progressed Canada’s centreback pairing took shape with Derek Cornelius, and Doneil Henry earning the job over the course of the tournament. The two are an everyday tandem in central defence for the Whitecaps, and the hope is the understanding created at club level can carry over to the national side.

By and large, the two have looked comfortable at the back for Canada. However, against more difficult opponents, and especially in transition, the duo has shown signs of struggle – specifically drifting or chasing out of position in the box. This issue cannot be entirely laid at the feet of Henry and Cornelius, as Canada’s fullback play has been dreadful at times – frequently beaten off the dribble, as well as issues failing to cover in behind their centrebacks.

These types of lapses have led to Canada’s inability to fully lockdown matches, but the good news is that the problem is mostly structural. The desire to play on the front-foot has meant pushing the fullbacks high up the pitch, as well as playing a high-line, which often leaves Henry and Cornelius isolated. How Herdman chooses to create more stability at the back will be intriguing.