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WILL STEPHEN EUSTAQUIO PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Stephen Eustaquio has gone from being a relatively unknown midfielder to becoming one of the pillars of Canada's footballing resurgence. With a World Cup already under his belt (Qatar 2022) and consistent playing time at FC Porto, many are wondering: will he be on the 2026 World Cup roster? In this article, we break down his current situation, his influence on the Canadian national team, his impact in Europe, and what the statistics and experts say. All this with a straightforward, engaging approach, full of interesting facts that any football fan will appreciate.
Where does he play and how is he performing now?
Stephen Eustaquio currently plays for FC Porto, one of the giants of Portuguese football, where he has become a key player in midfield. At 28 years old, he is experiencing one of the best periods of his career, with Champions League experience and a tactical level that has put him on the radar of bigger clubs on the continent.
2024-2025 Season: Solid Numbers
This season, Eustaquio has played 42 matches for Porto, scoring 5 goals and providing 8 assists. Beyond his offensive statistics, his influence is noticeable in the team's distribution and balance. He is the silent engine that connects defense and attack.
Passes completed per game: 88% effectiveness
Average recoveries: 7.3 per game
Accurate long balls: 5.1 per match
Captain in 9 official matches
Nominated for best midfielder in the Portuguese league
His style is reminiscent of players like Thiago Alcântara or Jorginho: intelligent, tactical, with great game reading and very few unforced errors. At Porto, he's a role model both on and off the pitch. And most importantly: he'll reach 2026 in peak physical and mental condition, with leadership and international experience. If Canada wants to achieve anything great, Eustaquio absolutely has to be part of it.
What is his role in the Canadian national team?
Stephen Eustaquio is one of the pillars of John Herdman's project, a coach who has described him as "the brain of the team." Since his debut in 2019, he has become the organizer of the Canadian midfield, surrounded by dynamic youngsters like Alphonso Davies, Jonathan David, and Tajon Buchanan.
Eustaquio's stats with Canada
Eustaquio has played 41 matches with the senior national team until October 2025, scoring 4 goals and providing 7 assists. Beyond the numbers, his impact is noticeable in the composure he brings to the Canadian game, in a team that sometimes errs on the side of being too rushed.
Participation in Qatar 2022: 3 matches as a starter
Occasional captain in qualifiers
100% start in CONCACAF 2025 matches
Player with the most forward passes in the qualifiers
Nominated for the CONCACAF Nations League Best XI
For the 2026 World Cup, which will be played at home (United States) Eustaquio, from the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to be a fixture on the roster. His experience, combined with his knowledge of the local scene, makes him a natural leader for the group. Furthermore, Eustaquio is seen as the perfect balance between young Canadian talent and the maturity needed to compete at an elite level. He's not the most high-profile, but he is one of the most essential.
What do the experts say and what interesting facts surround him?
Stephen Eustaquio isn't your typical viral TikTok player with flashy plays. His approach is quieter but just as valuable. Former footballers like Owen Hargreaves and analysts like Alexi Lalas have praised his vision and his ability to make his teammates better. “Canada plays differently when he’s on the field,” multiple analysis panels have said.
Things you didn't know about Eustaquio
He was born in Canada but trained in Portugal, giving him a hybrid style: North American in attitude, European in tactics.
He almost played for the Portuguese national team, but chose to represent Canada because of his roots and because “it was an exciting project.”
He has a brother (Mauro Eustaquio) who also played professionally, albeit in lower leagues.
He's a futsal fan and plays it to maintain his fine technique in tight spaces.
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