Canada thrashed nine-man Qatar 6-0 to secure their first-ever World Cup victory on Thursday, as Switzerland reignited their campaign with a resounding defeat of Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Tournament co-hosts Canada had lost all six of their previous matches at the World Cup, at the 1986 and 2022 finals, but brought that run of losses to a halt in spectacular fashion at Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium.
With Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney — wearing a replica Canada shirt — among a fired-up crowd, Jesse Marsch’s side ran riot to secure a win that leaves them needing only a point against Switzerland to finish top of Group B.
A hat-trick from Juventus striker Jonathan David, one goal apiece from Cyle Larin and Nathan Saliba, and a Mohammad Manai own goal sealed Canada’s win.
The victory was marred, though, by a serious left leg injury to midfielder Ismael Kone, who was stretchered off after being clumsily upended by Qatar’s Assim Madibo in the 51st minute.
Madibo was initially shown a yellow card for the challenge, which was subsequently upgraded to red. The stricken Kone was given oxygen as he was carried off the field, waving to fans.
“It was a great game even before (Kone) got hurt, but I think after he got hurt it was tough to focus on the game, even finishing the game… we just wanted the game to end so we could all be together,” David said.
