Jonathan David struck a hat-trick as Canada thrashed Qatar 6-0 in their FIFA World Cup Group B clash early this morning.
The result handed the co-hosts their first-ever World Cup victory and lifted them to the top of the group standings ahead of Switzerland on goal difference.
However, the emphatic win was overshadowed by concerns over Canada midfielder Ismael Kone, who was stretchered off after suffering a left-leg injury following a challenge from Qatar’s Assim Madibo early in the second half.
Madibo was shown a straight red card for the foul, reducing Qatar to nine men.
Canada opened the scoring through Cyle Larin, who converted from a rebound before David doubled the lead with a superb volley and later added his second goal from close range.
Nathan Saliba extended the advantage after finding the net with a free-kick shortly after coming on as a substitute for the injured Kone.
Qatar’s misery deepened when Mohamed Manai turned the ball into his own net for Canada’s fifth goal before David completed his hat-trick in stoppage time with a left-footed strike.
Qatar had already been reduced to 10 men in the 34th minute when Homam Ahmed was sent off for a challenge on Tajon Buchanan.
The referee initially awarded Canada a penalty, but a VAR review determined that the foul had occurred outside the penalty area.
Ahmed’s red card, however, was upheld.
The victory leaves Canada with four points from two matches, level with Switzerland but top of Group B on goal difference.
Canada will conclude their group-stage campaign against Switzerland in Vancouver on June 25, while Qatar will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in Seattle.
