Stephen Eustàquio’s dramatic stoppage-time strike secures Canada’s place in the World Cup Round of 16, eliminating South Africa in Los Angeles.
- +Canada Defeat South Africa 1-0 To Reach World Cup Round Of 16
Canada booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa, as Stephen Eustàquio scored a VAR-confirmed winner deep into stoppage time at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California.
Canada booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa, as Stephen Eustàquio scored a VAR-confirmed winner deep into stoppage time at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California.
South Africa controlled much of the possession but failed to make it count, while Canada were more incisive in attack, finishing with 14 shots, seven of them on target, compared with South Africa’s six attempts and two on target. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made several key saves to keep South Africa in the contest before Canada’s late breakthrough.
The decisive moment came in the first minute of added time when Eustàquio broke the deadlock after a tightly contested encounter. The goal was reviewed by the VAR before being confirmed, sending the co-hosts into the knockout stage, where they will face the winner between Netherlands and Morocco.
The defeat ends South Africa’s World Cup campaign, while Canada advances to the last 16 as the co-hosts continue their bid for a memorable run on home soil.
