Historic Canadian triumph
Vancouver, Canada — Jonathan David scored a hat trick and Canada earned its first win in World Cup history by beating Qatar 6-0 on Thursday. The result all but assures the Canadians a spot in the knockout round.
Qatar finished with nine players after two expulsions. Assim Madibo received a red card at the beginning of the second half for a strong challenge on Ismaël Koné, who suffered a fracture in his left leg and was taken off on a stretcher. Homan Ahmed was sent off in the first half for a foul on Tajon Buchanan.
With this win, Canada tripled its historical goal production in World Cups. Cyle Larin opened the scoring in the 16th minute after a rebound. David extended the lead with a volley in the 29th. Before the break, David scored again in a scrum to make it 3-0.
Nathan Saliba, Koné’s replacement, scored from a free kick in the 64th. Mohamed Manai then deflected a shot against his own goal in the 75th minute. David closed the scoring with his third goal in added time.
Concern about Koné’s injury
The victory was marred by Koné’s serious injury. His teammates surrounded him in anguish after he was left lying on the grass. Madibo was also visibly shaken before his expulsion. Koné was taken to a hospital to undergo surgery, coach Jesse Marsch reported.
“No one will forget this day,” declared Marsch. “It is a fundamental moment to show that there is talent, mentality and desire in this country.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney attended the match alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Alphonso Davies was available but did not play due to a previous injury.
Canada has three points in Group B, while Qatar still has not won a World Cup match. Switzerland leads the group after beating Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1.




