Canada delivered the most dominant performance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, crushing Qatar 6-0 at BC Place in Vancouver to secure the nation's first-ever World Cup group stage victory. Jonathan David was unstoppable, netting a hat trick in the 29th, 45th+3, and 90th+2 minutes to join Lionel Messi as the only players with three goals in a match at this tournament.
Cyle Larin opened the scoring in the 16th minute before David's brace made it 3-0 at halftime. A Mohamed Manai own goal and Nathan Saliba's strike extended the rout after the break. Qatar, reduced to nine men by red cards, were overwhelmed throughout. The historic win all but guarantees Canada a spot in the round of 16.
Joy was tempered by concern for midfielder Ismael Koné, who suffered a broken leg after a reckless Qatar challenge and was transported to hospital for surgery.