Canada face Qatar in their second group-stage match of World Cup 2026 this evening, with Chilean referee Christian Garay appointed to take charge of the contest. As co-hosts, Canada are heavy favourites to claim three points and boost their chances of advancing from the group.

Garay's selection is historically notable — he becomes the first Chilean referee to officiate at a World Cup since Enrique Osses handled matches at Brazil 2014, a gap of 12 years.

A referee with experience and controversy

Garay brings substantial credentials to his World Cup debut, having overseen high-profile matches across the Copa America, the Copa Libertadores, and World Cup qualifying campaigns.

His career has not been free of dispute, however. In 2025, Argentine official Javier Castrilli called for Garay to be removed from Chilean Liga de Primera fixtures after the manager of Everton Vina del Mar accused him of making decisions that unfairly disadvantaged his club.

Garay also drew criticism earlier this year for reversing a penalty following a VAR review during a Saudi Pro League match between Al Fateh and Al Hilal. Despite that scrutiny, FIFA selected him for this tournament — and tonight represents his debut on football's biggest stage.

Match officials

Garay will be supported by an almost entirely Chilean officiating team. José Retamal and Miguel Rocha serve as his assistant referees on the touchlines, and Juan Lara takes on the Video Assistant Referee role.

Peru's Kevin Ortega is appointed as Fourth Official, while fellow Peruvian Michael Orue stands by as reserve assistant referee should a replacement be required.

Red card tally so far

Four red cards have been issued across the tournament to date. Three of those came in the opening fixture between Mexico and South Africa, making it one of the most ferocious early matches in recent World Cup memory. Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemović subsequently received the fourth, dismissed during his side's match against Switzerland.