Canada registered a resounding 6-0 victory over Qatar, their first win in World Cup finals and local fans in Vancouver rejoicing the triumph.
It was a day of celebration at a packed BC Place, with only one concern for Canadian fans. Midfielder Ismael Kone appeared to suffer a serious leg injury after a clumsy challenge from Qatar’s Assim Madibo.
As fans left the stadium smiling, cheering and celebrating, it was clear they knew they had witnessed a special moment.
While ice hockey remains Canada’s most popular sport, football has a strong following in Vancouver. Thursday’s atmosphere showed just how passionate the city’s football fans are.
The national anthem was sung loudly and proudly before kickoff, but the noise grew even louder when Canada scored twice in the opening half-hour through Cyle Larin and Jonathan David. The sea of red inside the stadium erupted with every goal.
A group of Qatar supporters, dressed in traditional white thobes and maroon scarves, gathered behind one of the goals and supported their team throughout the match. But their hopes of a positive result faded when Homam Ahmed was sent off in the 33rd minute.
Things got even worse for Qatar in the second half when Madibo was shown a red card for a dangerous challenge on Kone. Reduced to nine players, Qatar struggled to compete as Canada dominated possession and continuously attacked.
Canada’s victory moved them to the top of Group B on goal difference, ahead of Switzerland. The two teams will meet in the final group match. If Canada finish top of the group, they will remain in Vancouver for their Round of 32 fixture.
