Vancouver: A scintillating hat-trick from star striker Jonathan David powered co-hosts Canada to a resounding 6-0 victory over Qatar in a FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B match at BC Place in Vancouver.
The emphatic win gave Canada their first victory of the tournament and lifted them to the top of Group B on goal difference with four points from two matches. Canada had opened their campaign with a draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, matching Switzerland’s tally of four points but boasting a superior goal difference.
David was the standout performer of the evening, scoring twice in the first half before completing his hat-trick in stoppage time. The Canadian forward became only the second player to register a hat-trick at the 2026 World Cup, following Argentina captain Lionel Messi.
Canada took control in the 16th minute when Cyle Larin, who had also scored in the team’s opening match, capitalized on a rebound after Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada failed to hold a shot. Larin reacted quickest to slot home and give the hosts an early lead.
David doubled the advantage in the 29th minute with a superb volley from the edge of the penalty area. Moments later, Qatar’s task became even more difficult when Homam Ahmed was shown a straight red card for bringing down Tajon Buchanan, reducing the visitors to ten men.
Canada made their numerical advantage count before halftime as David struck again in injury time, putting his side 3-0 ahead at the break.
Qatar’s hopes of limiting the damage faded shortly after the restart when Assim Madibo received a red card for a challenge on Ismaël Koné, leaving the Gulf nation with just nine players on the field.
Canada continued to dominate possession and chances. Substitute Nathan Saliba added a fourth goal with a well-taken free-kick in the 64th minute before Qatar defender Mohammed Muntari inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, gifting Canada a fifth goal.
David then capped a memorable night by completing his hat-trick in the 92nd minute, sealing Canada’s biggest-ever FIFA World Cup victory and sending the home crowd into celebration.
Speaking after the match, Larin said the performance demonstrated Canada’s growing stature on the global stage.
“We showed the world what this Canadian team is capable of. Many of our players are still introducing themselves to international football fans, but we have quality, determination, and belief. This is only the beginning for us,” he said.
Larin also stressed that the team remains focused on the challenges ahead.
“We’re pleased with the result, but our job is far from finished. Switzerland will be a tough opponent, and we know we can play even better,” he added.
The commanding victory significantly boosts Canada’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stage and underlines the team’s emergence as a genuine force in the tournament on home soil.
