Canada edges Guatemala in men's soccer B international in L.A.

Jacen Russell-Rowe's second-half goal lifted Canada to a 1-0 victory over Guatemala in a men's soccer B international Saturday in Los Angeles.

There was more niggle than highlights in a scoreless first half before a pro-Guatemalan crowd at BMO Stadium that saw Canada have the better scoring chances with Austin FC winger Jayden Nelson sparking much of the attack.

Russell-Rowe broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, heading home a perfect cross from substitute Malik Henry. Canada could have won by more had it not been for Guatemalan goalkeeper Kenderson Navarro.

Canadian 'keeper James Pantemis had a quiet night at the other end.

Lone goal by Canada's Russell-Rowe holds up as Canada defeats Guatemala in friendly

Given the game did not fall during a FIFA international window, Canada coach Jesse Marsch opted for players out of season, with all but one based in North America.

Earlier Saturday, Canada Soccer said the match had been downgraded to a B international, meaning it would not count in the FIFA rankings and players involved would not get senior caps. On the plus side, that allowed for 10 substitutions per side, allowing both sides to use their entire roster.

Marsch called it a "developmental game."

Toronto FC fullback Richie Laryea, a veteran of 71 caps, captained the side. He also led the Canadians in the third-place playoff loss to No. 16 Uruguay at the 2024 Copa America.

Other veterans on the roster were Toronto's Jonathan Osorio (87 caps), Portland's Kamal Miller (50 caps) and LAFC's Mathieu Choiniere (21 caps). Chicago's Joel Waterman (15 caps), Nelson (12 caps), Sporting Kansas City's Zorhan Bassong (seven caps) and Columbus' Russell-Rowe (seven caps) were the only other capped players.

Pantemis, Osorio, Miller,