June 19 (THEWILL) — Canada delivered a historic performance on home soil, crushing Qatar 6-0 at BC Place in Vancouver to record their first-ever victory at a men’s FIFA World Cup.
The emphatic win also became the biggest victory by a CONCACAF nation in men’s World Cup history, sending the home crowd into wild celebration.
Canada started brightly and opened the scoring in the 16th minute when Cyle Larin finished clinically after sustained pressure.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 29th minute through star striker Jonathan David, who continued his excellent tournament form with a composed finish.
Qatar’s situation worsened dramatically when Homam Ahmed was sent off in the 33rd minute, reducing the Asian champions to ten men.
Canada capitalised fully, with David tapping into an empty net deep into first-half stoppage time to make it 3-0.
Any hopes of a Qatari comeback disappeared early in the second half when Assim Madibo received a second red card for a reckless challenge on Ismaël Koné.
The challenge left Koné stretchered off with what appeared to be a serious leg injury, briefly silencing the jubilant crowd.
Canada remained relentless.
Nathan Saliba curled a superb free-kick into the net for the fourth goal before Qatar defender Ahmed Al Manai turned the ball into his own net while attempting a clearance.
David completed a memorable hat-trick in stoppage time, finishing coolly after being played through by Saliba.
The dominant victory sends Canada to the top of Group B on goal difference ahead of Switzerland and significantly boosts their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.
Olumide Atiba
