Canada secured their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory in emphatic fashion, while Switzerland revived their campaign with a convincing win as the race for the knockout stage intensified.
Canada finally celebrated a landmark moment in FIFA World Cup history after crushing nine-man Qatar 6-0 in Vancouver, recording the nation’s first-ever victory at the tournament.
The co-hosts entered the match carrying six consecutive World Cup defeats from their appearances in 1986 and 2022. However, backed by a passionate home crowd and watched by Prime Minister Mark Carney, Jesse Marsch’s side delivered a statement performance.
Juventus striker Jonathan David led the charge with a brilliant hat-trick, while Cyle Larin, Nathan Saliba, and an own goal from Mohammad Manai completed the rout. The result leaves Canada level on four points with Switzerland atop Group B, holding a superior goal difference heading into their decisive clash on June 24.
Despite the celebrations, the victory was overshadowed by a devastating injury to midfielder Ismael Kone. The Canadian star suffered a suspected broken leg following a reckless challenge from Qatar’s Assim Madibo, who was later sent off. Marsch confirmed Kone was hospitalized and expected to undergo surgery.
Qatar’s problems worsened after Homam El-Amin received a first-half red card, leaving the team with nine men and unable to contain Canada’s relentless attack.
Earlier, Switzerland reignited their World Cup hopes with a commanding 4-1 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina in Los Angeles. Johan Manzambi scored twice, while Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka added goals to strengthen Switzerland’s chances of advancing beyond the Round of 16 for the first time.
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