Co-hosts Canada delivered a commanding performance on Friday, securing their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory with a resounding 6-0 thrashing of nine-man Qatar at BC Place in Vancouver. Striker Jonathan David was the star of the show, notching an impressive hat-trick, while Cyle Larin and Nathan Saliba also found the back of the net. This dominant display puts Canada, with four points, on the precipice of advancing to the knockout stage.
The Canadians set the tone early, with Cyle Larin, fresh from his goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina, slotting home a rebound in the 16th minute. David then doubled the lead in the 29th minute, unleashing a powerful volley that left Qatar's goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada with no chance. The offensive prowess continued to build, delighting the home crowd.
However, the celebratory atmosphere took a serious turn in the 51st minute when Canada's Ismael Kone suffered a grave injury. Qatar's Assim Madibo was initially yellow-carded for a clumsy challenge from behind on Kone, who clutched his left leg in agony. Following a VAR review, the referee upgraded the card to red, resulting in Madibo's dismissal and leaving Qatar to play with just nine men for the majority of the second half. Kone was eventually stretchered off the pitch, receiving oxygen as he waved to the cheering crowd.
Capitalizing on their numerical advantage, Canada further extended their lead with goals from David to complete his hat-trick and Saliba. With this historic win, the 2026 co-hosts now require only a draw against Switzerland in their final group match to secure the top spot and advance to the next round, marking a significant milestone in their World Cup journey.
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