World Cup Daily: Canada hit six as Mexico reach knockout stage

In Group A, Czechia and South Africa shared the points in a 1-1 draw. Michal Sadilek gave the Europeans an early lead in the sixth minute, and Czechia appeared on course for victory before Teboho Mokoena converted a penalty in the 83rd minute to earn South Africa a valuable point.

Later in the same group, Mexico booked their place in the round of 32 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Republic of Korea. After a goalless first half, Luis Romo capitalized on a mistake by goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu to score the decisive goal. Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel then preserved the lead with a superb double save late in the match.

Group B witnessed the most dominant performance of the tournament so far. Co-hosts Canada thrashed Qatar 6-0 at BC Place to claim their first-ever World Cup victory. Cyle Larin opened the scoring before Jonathan David, Canada's all-time leading scorer, netted a hat-trick, becoming only the second player at the tournament to score three goals in a match after Lionel Messi's feat against Algeria.

The victory was overshadowed by a serious injury to Ismael Kone, who was carried off on a stretcher. His replacement, Nathan Saliba, later scored from a free kick and held up Kone's jersey in tribute.

Earlier in Group B, Switzerland defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 to move level on points with Canada.

After two rounds of matches, Mexico lead Group A with six points and have already secured a place in the knockout stage. Canada top Group B on goal difference with four points, ahead of Switzerland.

Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that the seventh day of the FIFA World Cup produced goals and drama, with England securing an impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia, while Colombia defeated World Cup debutants Uzbekistan 3-1 to take control of Group K.