Emergence of Alistair Johnston is proof that there are diamonds in Canada’s soccer rough
Alistair Johnston Reflects on His Journey to 50 Caps for Canada and Beyond
Alistair Johnston found himself in a Toronto hotel lobby, still feeling the effects of a long flight from Suriname where he achieved his 50th cap for the Canadian national team. The 26-year-old midfielder had come a long way from his days playing collegiate soccer at Wake Forest and spending summers with Vaughan Azzurri in League1 Ontario.
His rise in the soccer world had been unexpected but remarkable. From being a relative unknown to becoming a key player for Canada and even captaining Scottish giants Celtic, Johnston’s journey had been nothing short of extraordinary.
While many young players in Canada join Major League Soccer academies at a young age, Johnston’s path was different. He emphasized the importance of hard work, dedication, and talent over early development opportunities. His transition from midfielder to fullback during his senior year in college showcased his versatility and adaptability on the field.
After being drafted by Nashville in the MLS and spending time with CF Montreal, Johnston made the leap to Celtic in Scotland. His performances for both club and country continued to impress, earning him recognition as a leader and a rising star in Canadian soccer.
The relationship between Johnston’s club and country had been symbiotic, with each success at a higher level leading to greater opportunities. His standout performance during Canada’s memorable win over Mexico in snowy Edmonton caught the attention of Celtic before the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.
Johnston’s career trajectory had not gone unnoticed, with his success serving as a testament to Canada’s growing reputation as a producer of top soccer talent. He highlighted the importance of high-profile matches against top teams like the Netherlands, France, and Argentina in elevating Canada’s standing in the soccer world.
As Johnston prepared for his 51st cap for Canada in the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal, he reflected on the journey that had brought him to this point. From being a young player dreaming of a single cap to reaching the milestone of 50, Johnston understood the significance of his achievements and the impact it had on Canadian soccer.
With a sense of gratitude and determination, Johnston headed off to continue his journey on the field, knowing that his success was a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and belief in one’s abilities.
