Windsor soccer fans cheer on Canada in historic World Cup win

Hundreds of fans attended a watch party outside Windsor City Hall to take in Canada’s match against Qatar on June 18, 2026. (Robert Lothian/CTV News Windsor)

Soccer fans from across Windsor gathered Thursday night to cheer on Canada in its second 2026 FIFA World Cup match.

Hundreds of people pitched their chairs on Windsor’s City Hall Square to watch their nation beat Qatar 6-0, marking Canada’s first-ever victory at the men’s tournament.

Despite not being a devout soccer fan, Loraine, a spectator in the midst of the busy crowd, had a simple reason for attending the watch party.

“I am a true Canadian. I love my country,” she said.

The event featured face painting, activities for kids, soccer drills and of course, the game.

Each of Canada’s six goals prompted a large roar from the crowd, largely draped in red and white.

“I can’t handle this. I keep checking my watch, my heart rate keeps going up higher and higher. Every time they get close to a goal, I panic,” said Loraine.

Soccer fans won’t have to wait long for another watch party.

The city is hosting a similar event on Friday for fans looking to take in matches featuring the United States versus Australia and Scotland versus Morocco.