Sport

Canada qualify for first World Cup in 36 years

On Sunday, Canada qualified for their first World Cup in 36 years by defeating Jamaica 4-0 at BMO Field in Toronto, securing a berth in Qatar, while the United States and Mexico will have to wait.

Canada took the lead through Besiktas forward Cyle Larin, who was quickly followed by Club Brugge winger Tajon Buchanan, who doubled their lead just before halftime. Junior Hoilett of Reading made it 3-0 eight minutes before full time, and Adrian Mariappa of Jamaica scored an own goal in injury time to seal Canada's victory.

While Canada rejoiced, Mexico and the United States have yet to seal their World Cup spots despite victories, as did Costa Rica, who kept their prospects of qualifying for Qatar alive.

Christian Pulisic of Chelsea scored a hat-trick as the United States beat Panama 5-1 at home, while Mexico beat winless Honduras 1-0 thanks to a goal from Edson Alvarez in the 70th minute.

Canada now leads the Concacaf qualifying group with 28 points, three points ahead of the United States and Mexico, and three points behind Costa Rica, which defeated El Salvador 2-1.

The top three teams win automatic berths in November's World Cup, with the fourth-place finisher competing in an intercontinental playoff against an Oceania team for a fourth berth.

On Wednesday, Mexico will host El Salvador, the US will face Costa Rica in San Jose, and Canada will finish their campaign against Panama. Only a draw is required in both Mexico and the United States to secure an automatic place.

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