The United States flag was already a talking point at the start of the World Cup, with reports it had been booed during the opening ceremony in Mexico.
Some said boos were audible when the United States were introduced alongside the other host nations. Others inside the stadium described it more as indifference, with Argentina getting the clearest negative reaction.
In Toronto, before Canada’s opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina, the response was far less ambiguous. Multiple videos from the build-up showed the USA flag receiving a loud negative reaction from supporters.
USA flag booed before Canada vs Bosnia in World Cup ceremony
The moment came during the national flag presentation before Canada’s first match of the tournament. The Canadian flag drew huge cheers, while the USA flag was met with clear boos from sections of the crowd.
Canada and the United States share one of North America’s defining sports rivalries, especially in international competition, but that reaction added a political edge to what was already a major sporting occasion.
The atmosphere also reflected a wider backdrop. Relations between the countries have become more strained during Donald Trump’s second government, with trade disputes, tariff threats and sovereignty rhetoric all feeding Canadian frustration.
That does not mean every fan booing was making a political statement. World Cup crowds often react sharply to rivals, neighbours and host nations.
Still, the contrast was obvious. In Mexico, the USA flag reaction became a disputed story. In Toronto, before Canada and Bosnia kicked off, the boos were much harder to miss.
Now, the question is how the Americans will react to the Canada flag in their upcoming World Cup debut this Friday, against Paraguay.
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