Shaffelburg brace lifts Canada to 2-0 friendly win over Peru in Montreal

Shaffelburg's first-half brace seals the result

Jacob Shaffelburg scored both goals for Canada in a 2-0 win over Peru on Saturday at Montreal's Stade Saputo, opening the scoring in the 19th minute and doubling the lead in the 35th. Both goals originated from Liam Millar crosses, with Daniel Jebbison contributing a flick on the opener and Shaffelburg heading in the second after Peru goalkeeper Diego Romero failed to fully clear a delivery to the back post. Head coach Jesse Marsch's side held a comfortable advantage into the break and managed the second half without conceding.

Canada's dominant statistical performance

Canada controlled the match against the 50th-ranked Peruvians, holding 61 percent possession and outshooting Peru 17-4, with a 3-0 advantage in shots on target. The 30th-ranked Canadians improved to 3-1-0 all-time against Peru and recorded a second consecutive clean sheet to open the new four-year World Cup cycle.

Debuts and squad notes

Goalkeeper Owen Goodman made his senior international debut for Canada, finishing the match without having to make a save. Peru counterpart Romero also debuted for the visitors. Forward Cyle Larin was unavailable due to a back injury sustained in the gym earlier in the week. Marsch made nine substitutions in the 62nd minute. Long-time Canada and CF Montréal midfielder Samuel Piette was honored in a pre-match ceremony and entered in the 66th minute for his 70th cap.

Building toward Tuesday's matchup with the United States

The victory followed last weekend's 1-0 win over Chile in Toronto, giving Canada consecutive wins and clean sheets to begin the cycle. The team next faces the United States on Tuesday in St. Paul, Minnesota, in the final match of the international window.

Follow-up signals

Canada's next fixture is scheduled for Tuesday against the United States, completing the three-match October international window.