Canada secured a historic 1-0 victory over South Africa after Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic injury-time winner to book the co-hosts’ place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
The decisive goal came in the second minute of stoppage time when Eustaquio fired a low shot from the edge of the penalty area past the South African goalkeeper. It capped a dominant performance from Jesse Marsch’s side, who created the better chances throughout the match.
Canada came close several times before the breakthrough. Moise Bombito had a header cleared off the line, while Jonathan David, Promise David and substitute Alphonso Davies all threatened after the Bayern Munich defender returned from injury.
South Africa struggled to create opportunities and managed only one shot on target. Their hopes of forcing extra time ended when Eustaquio found the winning goal late in the contest.
The victory marks another milestone for Canada, who earned their first-ever World Cup win earlier in the tournament with a 6-0 victory over Qatar. They have now reached the knockout stage for the first time and will face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the Round of 16.
Canada’s remarkable World Cup campaign continues, while South Africa exit the tournament after falling short in the knockout stage.
