The Canadian Men’s National Soccer team hosts México tonight in front of another near-capacity crowd at Commonwealth Stadium.
Here’s the pitch: dress warm, show up early, wear red!
“Even when the temperature dips and there’s some snow to deal with, the Sea of Red does not freeze over!” said Heather Seutter, Commonwealth Stadium Director.
“We’re again asking fans to gear up in their warm Canada colours, wave their approved flags and, basically, show the world how much we love and support Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team.”
Here are other important things fans need to know.
Stadium entrance starts at 5 pm
With the snowy weather, the big crowd and the need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or recent negative test result to enter the stadium, fans are encouraged to give themselves extra time on match day.
Stadium gates open at 5 pm. The match kicks off at 7 pm sharp.
Inside the stadium, join in the singing of O Canada and the chants generated by the Voyageurs Canadian Soccer supporters group from the east stands.
COVID-19 protocols
Each fan aged 12 and older must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative test result (within 72 hours of the match) to enter the stadium.
Once inside, fans must follow all Commonwealth Stadium COVID-19 guidelines. For additional information, visit edmonton.ca. On-site testing will be available at TestNTravel, located near Gate 9.
Please make sure you have your proof of COVID-19 vaccination and government-issued ID ready.
Public transport
There is no on-site public parking.
Fans are encouraged to use public transit to arrive at Commonwealth Stadium. Enhanced LRT service is in effect, and a Park & Ride bus service to/from Commonwealth Stadium will run.
To buy a book of 10 bus tickets or a family/day pass, you can go to one of many ETS sales outlets across the city.
Parking
Public parking options near Commonwealth Stadium are at Edmonton Expo Centre (one LRT stop from the stadium) and Borden Park (short walk to the stadium). Parking at both locations is $15 and can be purchased in advance through the links.
Clear bag policy
Commonwealth Stadium has a clear bag policy in effect. All bags entering the stadium must be in a plastic bag no larger than 12”x12”x6”. This will assist in expediting the search process and reduce the waiting time to get into the stadium. Small bags under 4.5”x 6.5” are permitted.
Here is a complete Commonwealth Stadium venue guide.
Quest for Qatar continues
After winning 1-0 against Costa Rica, Canada is the only undefeated team through the seven matches of the Concacaf final round of FIFA World Cup qualifying. The men’s team is in third place in the standings, one point behind México. The top three teams advance directly to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
Go, Alphonso, Go, Edmonton, Go Canada!
Editor’s note: the pic at the top of the post, courtesy Canada Soccer, shows, left to right, Steven Vitória and Alphonso Davies celebrating the goal by Jonathan David in front of 48,806 fans at Commonwealth Stadium on Nov. 12, 2021.