Canada celebrated their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory in spectacular fashion, dismantling Qatar 6-0 in a dominant Group L performance inspired by Jonathan David’s hat-trick.
Jesse Marsch’s side produced a relentless attacking display at home, overwhelming a Qatar team that ended the match with nine players after two red cards.
The World Cup co-hosts started with tremendous intensity and quickly took control.
Jonathan David was at the heart of Canada’s attacking threat, and after his powerful volley was parried by goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada, Cyle Larin reacted quickest to bundle home the opening goal after 15 minutes.
Canada continued to dominate, and David doubled the advantage with a superb volley from 18 yards after Qatar struggled to contain the hosts’ attacking movement.
The situation became even worse for Qatar before half-time when Tajon Buchanan was brought down by Homam Al Amin. Although the challenge occurred outside the box, the defender was sent off for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
David completed his brace just before the interval, turning Canada’s dominance into a commanding 3-0 lead.
Qatar’s discipline collapsed further after the restart when Assim Madibo was dismissed for a dangerous challenge on Ismaël Koné, who was forced off on a stretcher with a suspected serious injury.
Despite the setback, Canada continued their relentless display, with Koné’s replacement Nathan Saliba curling in a superb free-kick from distance to make it 4-0.
The goals continued as Mohammad Al Mannai inadvertently turned Jacob Shaffelburg’s effort into his own net, before David completed his hat-trick in stoppage time with a powerful finish.
The historic victory gives Canada their first-ever World Cup win and provides huge momentum for Marsch’s side ahead of their final group game against Switzerland, while Qatar are left facing a difficult battle against Bosnia after a disappointing performance and two red cards.
