Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Canadian soccer team for making the finals in the Gold Cup.
After a stunning goal in the 68th minute of play, Canada beat Trinidad and Tobago 1 to 0 last night and will play Colombia on Sunday for the Championship of the Americas.
As a former soccer coach and the proud father of a soccer enthusiast, Matthew, I am particularly proud of Canada's soccer achievements.
A lot of expensive equipment, like hockey sticks, is not needed to play soccer. Players need a pair of shorts, good running shoes, energy, a quick mind and the desire to make some good plays. That is why soccer is the most universal sport in the world.
It encourages a common bond between players from Canada and other countries from all parts of every continent in the world.
Canada was ranked 85th in the world but beat 10th ranked Mexico. Our team is now in the finals for the Confederation Cup against Colombia on Sunday. This is truly an accomplishment.
Our congratulations to the coaches, players and all the volunteers who made this victory possible. They have made us all proud.