Casey Stoney takes charge of Canada's women’s national team amid World Cup ambitions

Canada has appointed Casey Stoney as the head coach of its women's national soccer team, following significant scrutiny and controversy. The decision comes months after former coach Bev Priestman was suspended due to a drone scandal that involved Canadian staff allegedly spying on New Zealand's training. This incident led to Canada losing six points, which colored their participation in the Paris Olympics, ending in the quarter-finals despite winning Olympic gold in Tokyo. Canada's Soccer Federation aims to foster a positive environment moving forward. Stoney brings significant experience, having most recently managed the NWSL side San Diego Wave, where she was recognized as Coach of the Year in 2022. Before that, she had a successful tenure as the first head coach of Manchester United's women's team, leading them to promotion into the Women's Super League and achieving competitive placements before stepping down in 2021. Her appointment is seen as a strategic move to revitalize the team in preparation for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. During her announcement, Stoney expressed her honor at leading Canada’s national team, emphasizing her commitment to developing the sport for women both on and off the field. The decision to appoint Stoney also reflects a broader shift within Canada Soccer towards establishing a culture of accountability and integrity. Kevin Blue, the CEO and General Secretary of Canada Soccer, voiced confidence in Stoney’s leadership qualities and ability to enhance the coaching landscape for women's football in Canada. With the organization now undertaking reforms to address past missteps, Stoney’s leadership could represent a pivotal moment for Canadian women’s soccer. As she prepares to lead the team into her first games at the Pinatar Cup in Spain next month, the eyes of the soccer community are set on how her strategic vision aligns with the federation's renewed goals.