Canada Crushes Qatar 6-0 Behind David Hat Trick

VANCOUVER — Jonathan David scored a hat trick as Canada routed Qatar 6-0 on Thursday, moving level with Switzerland atop Group B at the FIFA World Cup.



The victory was tempered by an apparent serious injury to midfielder Ismaël Koné, who was stretchered off during the second half and taken from the field for further medical evaluation.



Before that, Canada delivered its most dominant performance of the tournament.



Cyle Larin opened the scoring in the 16th minute before David doubled the lead in the 29th. David struck again in first-half stoppage time as Canada carried a 3-0 advantage into the break.



Nathan Saliba extended the lead in the 64th minute before Qatar defender Mohammed Mana scored an own goal in the 75th. David completed his hat trick in second-half stoppage time to finish off a convincing Canadian victory.



Canada controlled the match throughout, finishing with a 32-2 advantage in shots and a 10-0 edge in shots on target. The Canadians held 79 per cent possession, completed 565 passes compared to Qatar's 137 and earned 19 corner kicks while limiting Qatar to one.



Qatar failed to register a shot on target and finished the match with two red cards.



The result leaves Canada and Switzerland tied atop Group B with four points through two matches, though Canada holds the advantage on goal difference after scoring six times against Qatar. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Qatar each remain on one point entering the final round of group-stage play.



Canada will close out the group stage against Switzerland on June 24. A draw would be enough for the Canadians to finish first in Group B.