São Paulo – Fans of Canada and Qatar gathered on Thursday (18) evening at the Football Museum in São Paulo to watch the FIFA World Cup match between their national teams, which ended in a 6–0 victory for the Canadians. The screening, held on large screens in the museum’s outdoor area and auditorium, was organized by the Consulate General of the State of Qatar in São Paulo, the Consulate General of Canada in São Paulo, and the Brazil-Canada Chamber of Commerce (BCCC).
The event was held for guests of the organizers, including representatives of companies doing business with Canada and Qatar, partners, influencers, and other professionals connected to the consulates and the BCCC. The friendly gathering featured a potpourri of sports jerseys, with attendees wearing either the official shirts or simply the colors of the Qatar national team (maroon), Canada (red), and Brazil (green and yellow)—most participants were Brazilian.
Shortly before the match screening, leaders of the organizing institutions presented the initiative to the audience as an opportunity for fellowship among countries and cultures. “I thank everyone for being here, especially the Consulate General of Canada and the BCCC, who invited us to celebrate together sport, football, and the friendship between our countries,” said Almuhannad Ali Al-Hammadi, Consul General of the State of Qatar in São Paulo.
Canada’s Consul General in São Paulo, Joanne Lemay, noted that Canada is hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup and said that co-hosting the tournament with the United States and Mexico demonstrates the strength of one of the world’s most successful partnerships. “The most important thing about the World Cup is that it brings people together and gives us a chance to cheer side by side,” said São Paulo’s Municipal Secretary of Sports and Leisure, Érika Coimbra, in brief remarks to the audience before the match.
Hilton Reche do Nascimento, president of the BCCC, spoke about the importance of bringing people together through sports for those involved in trade as well. “We believe that international relations are strengthened not only through business and diplomacy, but also through initiatives like this one, which foster encounters, deepen understanding between cultures, and create opportunities for new connections,” he said.
With the match, Qatar and Canada completed their second World Cup fixture, which marked Canada’s first-ever victory at a FIFA World Cup. Canada had previously competed in 1986 and 2022 without recording a win. In their opening match, the Canadians drew 1–1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Qatar also came into the game following a 1–1 draw with Switzerland in the first round. Canada was considered the favorite, but a lopsided result like this was not expected. For now, Canada sits in first place and Qatar in fourth place in Group B.
At the Football Museum screening, guests were welcomed with food and drinks. Attendees also had the opportunity to take photos at displays and specially designated photo areas. Before the match, a large screen showcased different aspects of the two countries, including tourist attractions. Members of the BCCC also appeared on screen speaking about their relationship with Canada and with the chamber.
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Translated by Guilherme Miranda
