The Halifax Wanderers have acquired American/Haitian striker Nelson Pierre on loan from Vancouver Whitecaps FC through the end of 2026. A presence in the box with MLS and youth international experience, Pierre comes to Halifax hungry to contribute to the Wanderers’ push for the CPL Playoffs.
“Nelson is a goal scorer, and I really like how he attacks the space to create scoring opportunities for himself and be lethal behind the opposition lines,” Wanderers head coach and general manager Vanni Sartini said. “His proven ability to finish scoring chances complements our team style of play that creates lots of opportunities to score. He has a great combination of size, quickness and composure in front of the goal.”
Pierre is coming off a breakout 2025 season with Vancouver Whitecaps 2 in MLS Next Pro, where he scored 12 goals and tallied four assists in 22 matches. That season, he also scored his first MLS goal, helping the Whitecaps erase a 1-0 deficit and defeat Orlando City SC 2-1. Pierre joined the Whitecaps from Philadelphia Union, where he played parts of two seasons with Philadelphia’s MLS Next Pro side, scoring nine goals to go along with six assists.
“I’m super excited to be joining the Wanderers,” Pierre said. “I’ve heard a lot about what a beautiful coastal city Halifax is and how ambitious everyone is at the club. My goal is to come here and score as many goals as possible to help the team get into the playoffs.”
On the international level, Pierre has represented the Haiti U-20 national team, making three appearances at the 2024 Concacaf U-20 Championship. Pierre is available for selection ahead of Halifax’s next match on Sunday, Aug. 30 against Pacific FC.
Additionally, forward Victor Akinwale has been placed on the season-ending injury list and will miss the rest of the 2026 CPL season. In February, Akinwale signed a contract through the 2026 CPL season with club options for 2027 and 2028.