Canada's qualifying run coming into focus

Although the Canadian men's national soccer team is not scheduled to play any competitive games for over 5 months, it's schedule for this year is nonetheless taking shape. After receiving a bye through Stage One of World Cup qualifying in CONCACAF, Canada will begin its campaign with a pair of Stage Two matches against St. Vincent and the Grenadines. As reported at FIFA.com, Canada is scheduled to play at home against St. Vincent on Saturday, June 14, followed by away in the Caribbean on June 21. The winner of this two-game playoff will advance to the semi-final round of qualifying, which will commence in late summer of this year.

In addition to competitive matches, Canada's preparation for its upcoming World Cup qualifying campaign is also becoming clear. According to the Globe and Mail, Canada will play a friendly against Estonia in Tallinn on March 26. This will be the first match that Canada has played against Estonia since March 2003, when Les Rouges lost to the home side 2-1.

Aside from actual matches, Canadian national team players will participate in a training camp in January. Speculation on the Voyageurs' forum is that Canada will play at least one friendly during the camp, although no actual games have been confirmed. It will be interesting to see who coach Dale Mitchell invites to the camp, as many of Canada's top European-based players will be unavailable due to club commitments. At the very least, the January camp will showcase a few players who will be regular participants in this year's World Cup qualifying matches.

Between competitive matches, friendlies and training camps, it is quite evident that 2008 will be a busy year for the Canadian national team. For fans of the red-and-white, now is the time to set aside dates on the calendar for international soccer action.

Correction: The St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Canadian soccer associations agreed to a schedule change for this June's two-game playoff. The St. Vincent home fixture is scheduled for Sunday, June 15, while Canada's home fixture will be played a week later. Way to go CSA, you spineless (bleep).