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Jun 19, 2026 1:08 PM - Connect Newsroom - Ramandeep Kaur
Canada strengthened its position at FIFA World Cup 2026 with a dominant 6-0 victory over Qatar in Vancouver, led by a hat-trick from forward Jonathan David.
David scored three times for Canada, while Cyle Larin and Nathan Saliba each added a goal. Canada's sixth goal came through an own goal by a Qatar player.
The match was overshadowed by a serious injury to Canadian midfielder Ismaël Koné. According to team officials, Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo tackled Koné from behind, resulting in a fracture to the player's left leg. Koné was taken to hospital for surgery.
Referee officials issued a straight red card to Madibo following the challenge. It was Qatar's second red card of the match, leaving the team to play with nine players for the remainder of the game.
Canada head coach Jesse Marsch said after the match that the severity of the injury was immediately apparent. Reports indicate Madibo personally apologized to Koné before the Canadian player was transported for medical treatment.
The result boosts Canada's chances of advancing from the group stage. The team is scheduled to face Switzerland in its final group match on June 24.
