A Jonathan David hat-trick, one goal apiece from Cyle Larin and Nathan Saliba, as well as a Qatar own goal, sealed a momentous victory for the Canadians at the BC Place Vancouver stadium on Thursday.
Canada had scored three goals in the first half, a brace from Jonathan David and a goal from Larin while Qatar’s Al-Amin got himself a straight red card.
Things got worse for Qatar after Assim Omer Madibo‘a yellow card was turned to a straight red card by VAR, after him and Kone both challenged for the ball, resulting in a lengthy stoppage and the Canadian being carried off on a stretcher. But with his name being chanted by the Canadian supporters, ex-Watford midfielder Kone was able to sit up and wave as he was carried around the side of the pitch while inhaling painkillers.
Canada ended the match with three more goals from Saliba, a Al Mannai own goal, and Jonathan’s third goal of the night to complete his hat-rick.
Victory by a six-goal margin means Canada sit top of group B – level on points with Switzerland. Canada are now likely to reach the knockout rounds.
