Canada reach World Cup last 16 for first time as Stephen Eustaquio’s stoppage time goal sinks South Africa
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Los Angeles: Stephen Eustaquio's stoppage time strike sent co hosts Canada into the FIFA World Cup last 16 for the first time after a hard fought 1-0 win over South Africa in the Round of 32.
The decisive moment arrived in added time when Eustaquio hammered a bouncing ball from the edge of the box into the bottom corner, sparking scenes of celebration as Canada sealed a historic progression.
Both teams were attempting to reach the knockout stages for the first time. Canada, however, had been the brighter side for long spells and created the clearer chances throughout the match. South Africa produced several promising moves, particularly in the first half, but were repeatedly undone by a lack of a clinical final ball.
The most dramatic early moments came late in the first half, when Aubrey Modiba hooked Moise Bombito’s header off the line, and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams produced a superb block to deny Tajon Buchanan at the near post. After the break, Canada continued to press; Tani Oluwaseyi’s shot was well saved by Williams, with Mbekezeli Mbokazi clearing the follow up.
Alphonso Davies’ introduction in the 75th minute injected pace and trickery that troubled South Africa's defence, but it was Eustaquio who ultimately decided the tie.
Jesse Marsch’s side will now face the winners of Netherlands versus Morocco at Houston Stadium. Canada’s run at the 2026 tournament already included the nation’s first World Cup point and first win — and now its first appearance in the Round of 16.
South Africa leave the tournament with pride after reaching the knockout phase for the first time. Their coach, Hugo Broos, aged 74 years and 79 days, became the oldest manager to oversee a team in a World Cup knockout match, eclipsing Oscar Tabarez’s record from 2018.
(Inputs from IANS)