Outside of FIFA World Cup tournaments, Canada has had glimpses of success but have been unable to build on these fleeting moments. Against all odds, Canada won the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup, defeating Mexico and Colombia en route to the trophy. Most recently, the women's team earned a deserving silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics.
Although on field performance has been lackluster, it is the off field developments where excitement is building in Canada.
In 2002, Canada hosted the inaugural Under-19 FIFA Women's World Cup, whose success showcased an untapped soccer market across the country. Five years later Canada again played host, this time to the 2007 Under-20 FIFA World Cup. Despite Canada's last place finish, the tournament was considered a great success in terms of attendance and economic impact.