Kolkata : Jonathan David’s hat-trick powered Canada to a historic victory over nine-men Qatar at BC Place Vancouver. It is the first FIFA World Cup victory for the 2026 co-hosts, who with four points are on the precipice of the knockout round.
Canada coach Jesse Marsch called for the fans and players to make Qatar feel their presence, and both delivered. Cyle Larin, fresh off his goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina, slotted home a rebound. David took it to another level, pulverizing a volley that blazed past Mahmoud Abunada.
Things grew worse for Julen Lopetegui’s men after Homan Ahmed’s half-hour takedown of Tajon Buchanan and red card, and David made them pay by stabbing home right before the break.
It was then down to nine for Qatar when Assim Madibo’s challenge on Ismael Kone resulted in red. Nathan Saliba’s free-kick goal was inevitable, as was the own goal from Mohamed Manai and a late David strike to end a night that Canada will never forget.
David is the first player to score a hat-trick on home soil since Geoff Hurst for England in 1966.
Brief scorecard –
Canada goals: Larin (16), David (29, 45+3, 90+2), Saliba (64), Manai og (75).
