Eustaquio Stings as
Canada Edge South Africa with Late Winner to Reach Historic FIFA World Cup Last 16
Co-hosts Canada booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in history after Stephen Eustaquio struck a dramatic stoppage-time winner to seal a 1-0 victory over South Africa on Sunday.
The tightly contested Last 32 clash at Los Angeles Stadium appeared destined for extra time as both sides struggled to create clear-cut scoring opportunities throughout the match.
However, Canada found the breakthrough in the second minute of added time.
Midfielder Stephen Eustaquio produced the decisive moment with a superb low strike from the edge of the penalty area, sending the Canadian supporters into celebration and securing one of the most significant victories in the nation’s football history.
Canada had earlier threatened through defender Moise Bombito, whose powerful header was cleared off the goal line, while South Africa defended resolutely for much of the contest before eventually conceding in heartbreaking fashion.
The victory marks another milestone for Canada, who had lost all six of their previous FIFA World Cup matches before the expanded 2026 tournament.
Playing as one of the tournament’s co-hosts, they have now progressed to the knockout stages for the first time.
Canada will now face the winner of the Round of 32 encounter between Morocco and the Netherlands in the Round of 16 as they continue their remarkable World Cup campaign.
Match Result
2026 FIFA World Cup – Last 32
South Africa 0-1 Canada
Goalscorer:
Stephen Eustaquio (90+2′)
Venue: Los Angeles Stadium
Attendance: 69,237
