Saskatoon shows up as Canada’s World Cup run ends in pride and sorrow

Saskatoon shows up as Canada’s World Cup run ends in pride and sorrow

Fans and supporters came out to watch history in the making

They came in a flood of red, with flags and energy to watch history in the making. Thousands packed the Gather Local Market at River Landing in Saskatoon to watch Canada play Morocco in the Round of 16.

Canada lost 3-0 and was eliminated from the FIFA World Cup. But people were there to support and cheer for the country, and they were happy to see the team make it so far.

Rob Williamson watched the game eagerly. “We had that first half, Canada played a flawless game, 43 minutes and Morocco didn't even get a touch in a box. That’s unheard of,” he said.

“This is just the start for Canada,” Williamson said.

“We’ve never made it this far,” said Cynthia Block, Saskatoon mayor and a longtime soccer mom.

She said the city is becoming a soccer city, and it’s time to build more space for newcomers bringing the sport with them.

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“The environment is unreal here,” Derek Epp said.

“We're all here from Saskatoon. I don't believe there's any Saskatchewan natives on the team, but still supporting our country.”

Daniela Flores, who was also at the watch party, said the moment wasn’t really about the score, instead it was about being out there in unity for Canada.

“I am sad, but at the same time proud because we haven't made it this far,” she said. “It was so good to see how Canadian soccer has just picked up."

“My little kids are learning about soccer and the whole country is embracing this new sport for us. So I'm very, very, very excited about what's going to happen next,” Flores said.

Aishwarya Dudha is a reporter for CBC Saskatchewan based in Saskatoon. She specializes in immigration, justice and cultural issues and elevating voices of vulnerable people. She has previously worked for CBC News Network and Global News. You can email her at aishwarya.dudha@cbc.ca