Canada Claims Historic First World Cup Win as Switzerland Revives Campaign

Playing before a passionate home crowd at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, tournament co-host Canada ended a run of six consecutive World Cup defeats stretching back to its appearances in 1986 and 2022. The result leaves Jesse Marsch’s side in a strong position to finish atop Group B.

Prime Minister Mark Carney was among the spectators as Canada delivered a dominant performance. Juventus striker Jonathan David led the way with a hat-trick, while Cyle Larin and Nathan Saliba also found the net. Qatar’s Mohammad Manai added to the visitors’ misery with an own goal.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the match was overshadowed by a serious injury to Canadian midfielder Ismael Kone. The 23-year-old was stretchered off after a heavy challenge from Qatar’s Assim Madibo early in the second half.

Madibo initially received a yellow card, but the decision was upgraded to a red card following a review. Kone was treated on the field and given oxygen before being taken to hospital. After the match, Marsch said the midfielder was believed to have suffered a broken leg and would require surgery.

The Canadian coach said players and staff were shaken by the incident, describing Kone as an important member of the squad both on and off the field.

Qatar had already been reduced to 10 men before halftime after Homam El-Amin was sent off for denying a clear scoring opportunity. Madibo’s dismissal left the team with only nine players, allowing Canada to dominate the closing stages and add three more goals.

The victory moved Canada level with Switzerland on four points in Group B, but a superior goal difference means the hosts need only a draw in their final group match against the Swiss on June 24 to secure first place.

Earlier in Los Angeles, Switzerland bounced back from a disappointing opening result by defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1 at SoFi Stadium. Johan Manzambi scored twice, while Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka added late goals to complete the win.

Bosnia, who qualified for the tournament after upsetting Italy in the playoffs, now face elimination with only one point from two matches.

In Group A, South Africa kept its slim hopes alive with a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Atlanta. Michal Sadilek gave the Czechs the lead before Teboho Mokoena converted a penalty to earn South Africa a point.

Both teams now have one point and likely need victories in their final group matches to reach the knockout stage. Group leaders Mexico and South Korea, who won their opening games, were scheduled to meet later Thursday in a match expected to play a major role in deciding the group standings.