Canada's maple leaf clapper becomes the unlikely symbol of a nation's first World Cup knockout run

A small red noisemaker shaped like a maple leaf has quietly become the defining object of Canada’s World Cup in Toronto, as Les Rouges reached the knockout stages of the tournament for the first time in their history.

Dubbed the “Canadian clapper”, the three-piece handheld devices measure 4 by 7 inches (10 by 18 centimetres) and are made from recycled materials. FIFA began distributing them free of charge to fans attending Canada’s opening group-stage match on June 12 at BMO Field, before donating thousands more to the FIFA Fan Festival, where volunteers handed them out during watch parties for the second and third group games.

Because the clappers have never been available in retail stores, they have taken on the quality of a collector’s item among supporters. Toronto resident Ryan Fonte received one from a festival volunteer ahead of Wednesday’s match against Switzerland. “These are amazing. So, let’s go Canada,” he said.

Ottawa resident Cedric Osagie admitted he had no idea what the device was officially called when he was handed one. “I have absolutely no idea what the name of it is called,” he said. “I’ll imagine it’s called a ‘clapper.’” He was, however, clear on its purpose. “When Canada does something cool, I will do this,” he said, demonstrating the clapping motion. “When we score, I will shake it.”

Toronto’s World Cup executive director Sharon Bollenbach said the response to the clappers had exceeded expectations. “They’ve had a big impact,” she said, adding that they had “created a real buzz and an interest and lots of noise around the city of Toronto.”

Bollenbach connected the clappers’ popularity to a broader swell of national pride, driven both by Canada’s co-hosting role and the team’s historic progress. With Canada Day falling on July 1, the timing has added an extra layer of significance. “I think that’s what the World Cup is all about,” she said, “that we can celebrate our cultures, we can celebrate our heritage and be truly Canadian proud that we are hosting the world.”

Canada will face South Africa in the round of 32, with a place in the last 16 on the line.