Time is running out on Bev Priestman's Olympic team selection, and Canada's match against Mexico on Tuesday at BMO Subject is another chance to impress.

But Priestman says the real decision-making process will come after this camp, after analyzing footage and data with his coaching staff and taking player health into account.

“So I have to wait,” he told BMO Subject after a training session Monday. “I have to wait as long as possible to finally put together the best possible team to represent Canada at these Olympic Games.

“And what I know is that I have to call some incredible players who would probably be part of a roster or a team in other countries.”

Priestman agrees that it's a good problem to have. But that doesn't make things any easier.

“I have a great relationship with this team and you care about your players, as human beings and footballers,” he said. “It’s always the hardest part of the job.”

Canada has until July 3 to name a squad of 18 players plus four substitutes. Priestman said he hopes to announce his squad at the end of June, so everyone knows what will happen when the team travels to Europe, where they are expected to play their final warmups during the international window of FIFA from July 8 to 16. just before the Olympic tournament.

The ninth-ranked Canadians will begin the defense of their Olympic title on July 25 against New Zealand, No. 26, in Saint-Etienne before finishing the Group A match against France, No. 5, on July 28 in Saint-Etienne. -Etienne and against Colombia, number one. 25, July 31. in Nice.

There are decisions to be made, both when it comes to fitness and health.

Midfielder Quinn (knee) and defender/winger Sydney Collins (fractured ankle) did not participate in this camp. And Canada has a surplus of forwards.

“Tell me about that,” Priestman said.

Although Priestman attempted to take the pressure off players at camp, saying a single performance wouldn't be enough to make or break their chances, Olympic roster decisions remain important.

“I feel like there's a little bit of nervousness,” said forward Adriana León, whose move to Paris is assured as Canada's third all-time top scorer with 40 goals. “I think it's normal given what awaits us and that this is the last camp towards Paris. So there was a little bit of nervousness and a little bit of extra energy, but also excitement. “Everyone is always happy to play at home.”

Priestman's young son, Jack, added energy Monday by playing goalie on the field.

“Does Jack know what mom is doing?” Yes,” Priestman said in response to a question. “I think we scored on penalties. He keeps asking me, “Is this going to result in penalties?” when there is a tie every time we watch a match. This is now the case for the last two tournaments.

“At the (Tokyo) Olympics, I had no idea. So yes, he knows it and he asks me if we are going to win a gold medal. So I hope I can bring another one home. Maybe you'll understand what it means this time.

Canada beat Mexico 2-0 on Saturday at Stade Saputo in Montreal thanks to goals from León (73rd minute) and Chloé Lacasse (86th minute) in front of an announced crowd of 15,319 people. Mexico is ranked 31st, good for third place in CONCACAF after Canada and the Americans, who are in fourth place.

Priestman fielded a strong Montreal team that included 19-year-old forward Olivia Smith, who earned her ninth cap in her second start. The coach says she will make some changes to her team on Tuesday “but not complete changes.”

Nichelle Prince was unable to practice Monday and will not be available Tuesday as a precaution. The Kansas Metropolis Present forward injured his calf during the CONCACAF Gold Cup in February.

Prince is no stranger to injuries, having ruptured her Achilles tendon during a friendly match against Brazil in November 2022. She recovered in time to make Canada's squad for last summer's World Cup, but saw only a short period of action from the bench.

Canada is 23-2-3 against Mexico, but is winless in its last two meetings (0-1-1) heading into this weekend's meeting in Montreal.

Fountain