Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has ignited controversy by calling Canada's men's national soccer team 'losers' following their 1-0 victory over South Africa in the FIFA World Cup round of 32. Portnoy, known for his provocative hot takes, expressed disbelief that Canada could be among the tournament's top 16 teams.
Portnoy's Comments on Canada's World Cup Run
During an appearance on Wake Up Barstool on Monday morning, Portnoy questioned Canada's legitimacy as a knockout-stage team. 'I cannot almost believe in a world where Canada — you're telling me Canada — has one of the best 16 soccer teams in the country (sic)?' he said. 'That, that just seems impossible.' He speculated that the expanded World Cup format, which he called the 'NCAA-ification of the World Cup,' might be allowing weaker teams to advance.
One of the show's hosts, T-Bob Hebert, defended Canada, noting that host nations often perform better. 'Host nations sort of tend to perform better when it's in their country, like I think it was Korea that reached the semifinal when it was there,' Hebert said. He also pointed out that Canada was favored against South Africa in the match.
Betting Loss Fuels Criticism
Portnoy's disdain for Canada's team appears to stem from a betting loss. Before the match, he posted on social media that he would bet on every knockout game, starting with a $25,000 wager against Canada. 'I just don't see Canada advancing in soccer,' he wrote. After Canada's win, Portnoy vented frustration, tweeting, 'Brutal. What the hell was that idiot doing on defence? He passed it right to him. Stupid soccer will always get you beat. 0-1.' He also shared a video of the defensive turnover, suggesting the player should 'hang up his cleats.'
On Monday, Portnoy followed up with another losing bet, backing Japan to beat Brazil. Brazil came from behind to win 2-1, leaving Portnoy 0-2 in his knockout round picks.
Broader Criticism of Canadian Soccer
Portnoy expanded his criticism beyond Canada's team, questioning the country's soccer culture. 'Who plays soccer in Canada?' he asked rhetorically, before answering 'losers.' He argued that if the United States channeled its best athletes into soccer, it would dominate the World Cup, and suggested the same could be true for Canada, but that hockey remains the priority.
Portnoy's comments have sparked backlash from Canadian fans and soccer supporters, who point to Canada's historic advancement as a sign of the sport's growth in the country. The Canadian team, co-hosting the tournament, has captured national attention with their performance.
