Thousands of people at Toronto’s FIFA Fan Festival in Fort York celebrated the Canadian men’s thumping of Qatar to win its first-ever World Cup match.
“I love Canada. This means so much to me. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I can’t believe it,” one fan told CP24’s Sijia Liu.
Canada beat Qatar 6-0 in Group B action at BC Place thanks to a hat trick by Jonathan David and goals by Cyle Larin and Nathan Saliba.
Fans broke out in “Ole, Ole, Ole” and “Canada! Canada!” chants, blew their horns, waved Canadian flags and scarves, and jumped for joy as the final whistle was blown.
Another fan, who predicted a 3-1 Canada win, said never in his wildest dreams would the team win 6-0.
“The best day in Canadian soccer history,” one fan said.
Many fans are now looking ahead to Canada’s final group stage match against Switzerland next week in Vancouver. They are confident that Canada will win and advance to the knockout stage for the first time.
“We can’t believe it,” one fan said. “Switzerland, we’re coming for you!”
Switzerland beat Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier on Thursday. Despite both Canada and Switzerland having four points, the Canadians are atop the group by virtue of goal differential.
“I think it’s the best day of my life. I’m sorry, my wife, I love you so much, but this is incredible,” one man said.
When asked how he will remember the win, one fan said, “I will remember it with grace, love, and passion for Canada. I love everybody!”
The Canada House watch party at the Harbourfront Centre turned into a victory, with dancing and singing, as fans said they are proud of the team’s dominant performance.
“It’s unbelievable. I can’t believe it,” one fan told CP24’s Phil Perkins.
