Jacob Shaffelburg's World Cup experience with Canada is fueling his confidence for LAFC. The winger, who came off the bench in all five of Canada's matches at the 2026 tournament, told reporters this week that the historic run has given him a significant boost.
Shaffelburg was part of the Canadian squad that reached the knockout stages for the first time. He combined with Stephen Eustáquio for a stoppage-time winner against South Africa at SoFi Stadium, a landmark moment for the program. Canada's campaign, which ended in the round of 16 against Morocco, set a new viewership record in the country.
How has the World Cup changed Shaffelburg?
Shaffelburg returned to LAFC with a different mindset. "Since coming back I've felt a lot more confidence," he said. The 26-year-old attributes this to the pressure of performing on the world's biggest stage in front of massive crowds. "Walking out and seeing the whole stadium, 50,000 people in all red, was unbelievable," Shaffelburg recalled. That confidence translated directly to the pitch for his club. His late cross set up a crucial stoppage-time goal to beat Toluca in the Leagues Cup, a play born from the relentless attitude he honed with the national team.
LAFC coach Marc Dos Santos sees a clear link between his players' international duty and their club form. "When you play in such a big international competition where the spotlight is on your country and you're participating in it, of course confidence grows," Dos Santos said. LAFC sent more players to the 2026 World Cup than any other MLS side, with Shaffelburg and Mathieu Choiniere representing Canada and Son Heung-min playing for South Korea.
What does Shaffelburg bring to Canada's style?
Canada's coach Jesse Marsch values the specific qualities Shaffelburg possesses. Marsch, who took over the national team ahead of the World Cup, selected a roster with nine MLS players, more than any other nation at the tournament. He described Shaffelburg as a "fearless player who likes to run, who's aggressive, who likes to go at opponents." This relentless approach is a hallmark of the identity Marsch is building. Shaffelburg's journey to the top level is unique. Growing up in Port Williams, Nova Scotia, he couldn't skate, leading him to soccer and track before moving to a soccer academy in Massachusetts as a teenager.
Who else from LAFC starred for Canada?
Mathieu Choiniere was another LAFC player who made his World Cup debut for Canada. The midfielder started and played 57 minutes in a group stage match against Switzerland. "It was a dream," Choiniere said. "It was an extra boost to believe even more in my qualities." Like Shaffelburg, he has carried that experience into his club performances, contributing two assists since the MLS season resumed. Choiniere's path saw him develop in CF Montreal's academy before a move to Europe and his eventual signing with LAFC through 2028.
What's next for Canada's World Cup contributors?
The immediate focus for players like Shaffelburg is maintaining their club form. LAFC's schedule remains busy, and you can track their upcoming matches on our fixtures page. For the Canadian national team, the core group that made history this summer is expected to remain integral. Fans can follow the evolving player pool on our squad page. The success of MLS-based players like Shaffelburg and Choiniere under Marsch suggests the league will continue to be a vital pipeline for talent. Their performances have solidified their roles and set a standard for the next generation aiming to pull on the red jersey.
