For more than two decades, women’s soccer in Canada has been led by Christine Sinclair and it was with heavy hearts that soccer fans said goodbye to the legendary striker on the field in Vancouver on Tuesday.

Tens of thousands of people came to BC Place – renamed Christine Sinclair Place for the occasion – to welcome the most prolific player in history in her final international match, which she won 1-0 against Australia.

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The red carpet was rolled out for the occasion and Canadians enthusiastically welcomed their “Queen of the North” for this final round. Even Sinclair’s favorite foods were featured in the stadium’s food stalls and a No. 12 cocktail was created.

It has to be said that the British Columbian has left an indelible mark on her sport. With 190 international successes, she is the greatest goalscorer in history – women and men combined.

She made her debut for Canada’s U18 team at just 16 years old and fans have fallen in love with her all over again. His career includes four Olympic Games appearances and a total of three medals, including a gold medal in 2021 in Tokyo.

An hour in front of his audience

Sinclair was part of Bev Priestman’s starting XI for the clash against Australia. All players wore star of the day jerseys during warm-ups, except for the main player. She competed wearing the sweater of Sophie Schmidt, her great accomplice within the national team, for whom it was also a final.

The veteran played the first 60 minutes of the game before being replaced by Schmidt. She made her presence known a few times when she was on the field for Canada’s first goal, which Quinn scored in the 40th minute.

This meeting should not be the end of broadcasting for Sinclair as she plans to play the 2024 season with her NWSL club, the Portland Thorns.