In its soccer history, Canada has beaten Mexico only four times in 33 games. The last win was 21 years ago in the Gold Cup. The Canucks had never triumphed in a World Cup qualifier.

Tuesday evening, in subzero Edmonton, 44,200 Canadian soccer fans celebrated as that history changed.

In a pulsating game played at the Commonwealth Stadium, Canada downed mighty Mexico 2-1, putting the Canucks top of the Concacaf region’s eight-team World Cup qualifying group.

Coming on the heels of the Canadian Women’s National Team gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics, soccer in Canada is on the crest of a wave. Even Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited the men’s team camp prior to Tuesday’s game to offer words of encouragement.

Two goals in either half from Kyle Larin settled the game, making him the joint top scorer in Canadian men’s soccer history. While Mexico battled hard in the final moments, getting one goal back in the 89th minute, the damage was done.  

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