FIFA World Cup 2026: Eustaquio's late goal sends Canada into WC Round of 16, cruising past South Africa 1-0
California, June 29
Stephen Eustaquio's last-gasp strike sealed a hard-fought victory for co-hosts Canada over South Africa in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 to move into the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time, in Los Angeles on Sunday.
Jesse Marsch's side will now face the winner of the Netherlands vs Morocco at Houston Stadium.
Eustaquio has fired Canada to victory with a winning goal in the 92nd minute.
Canada's midfield general struck from the edge of the box after a loose South African clearance, driving the ball low into the bottom-left corner, beyond the reach of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Bafana Bafana showed flashes of quality in an encouraging first half at Los Angeles Stadium but were repeatedly let down by their final ball. Canada came close twice on the stroke of half-time, as Aubrey Modiba cleared Moise Bombito's header off the line before Ronwen Williams produced a superb save to deny Tajon Buchanan.
After the break, Canada regained control, with Williams again called into action to parry Tani Oluwaseyi's effort, while Mbekezeli Mbokazi reacted quickly to prevent a follow-up tap-in.
Alphonso Davies was introduced in the 75th minute to a loud reception and immediately added pace and creativity down the flank, but it was Eustaquio who decided the contest, striking a bouncing ball from the edge of the box into the bottom corner.
Despite the defeat, South Africa exited the tournament with pride after reaching the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Heartbreak for South Africa but they played with real spirit! Bafana Bafana showed Africa's potential. India could learn a thing or two from their grit and organization. Also, Eustaquio's goal was pure class. Hats off! 👏
Canada deserves this! I've been following them since the '22 World Cup. Jesse Marsch has built a resilient unit. But South Africa's exit is unfortunate—they gave it their all. The World Cup keeps delivering drama. ⚽
As an Indian, I feel proud for Canada (co-hosts!) but also for South Africa reaching the knockouts. It shows that even non-traditional teams can compete. Our Indian team needs to focus on youth development and fitness like these nations. Well played! 🤝
What a match! Canada looked shaky in the first half but that late goal shows real character. South Africa's Modiba and Williams were brilliant. I hope India can one day script such stories on the world stage. Eustaquio—what a hero! 👏
I'm conflicted. Happy for Canada but sad for South Africa. Their fans must be heartbroken. But honestly, this is what football is all about—raw emotion. India needs to take notes on how minnows are progressing. Jai Hind and good luck Canada! 🇮🇳⚽
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