Herdman calls Canada a “ruthless team” despite their loss to Belgium

Canada was far from an easy target in their 2nd ever World Cup outing as Herdman’s team took 22 shots and were the more dominant side for the majority of the game against 2018 World Cup’s third-placed

.

Despite a missed penalty from star Alphonso Davies as well as a host of missed chances by

’s attack, Herdman was pleased with the way his team performed, saying:

"They showed that they [Canada] do belong.

"The fans tried to warm the stadium and I'm sure they walked away proud that we are a football nation. I'm really proud.

"We had a couple of goals, to play fearless and to entertain. We had other goals but never got to those moments."

Herdman also praised Belgium’s attack who thwarted Canada’s every attack, saying:

"The stats would say we are a ruthless team, we just couldn't find the net.

"When you have the Real Madrid goalkeeper [Courtois] it makes a difference, when you also have Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Dendoncker, it’s difficult to get through.

"I thought sometimes it was one touch too many around the box, but when you outshoot Belgium you can't complain too much. Sometimes it's your night, and sometimes it's not."

When asked about why

took the penalty over the likes of Jonathan Davied who are more accustomed to the task, Herdman defended Davies, saying:

"It was a big moment, we were waiting to get that first goal.

"I'm proud of Phonzy [Davies], he's picked the ball up. It's a big moment for any player, carrying the weight of a nation. It takes a special character.

"When you have an $85million player, let him take it. He practices just like Jonny David. Give Courtois credit too, that was some good keeping."

Herdman also spoke about Croatia and Morocco, claiming that their rivals have made Group F wide open in his eyes, also mentioning that Croatia’s midfield is a serious threat in their next match.

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