Eustaquio, Canada Late Goal Hero Speaks After Sending Canada to Historic FIFA World Cup Round of 16
Canada’s match-winner Stephen Eustaquio dedicated his dramatic stoppage-time goal to the entire nation after firing the co-hosts into the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in history.
Eustaquio struck in the second minute of added time to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Africa in Sunday’s Round of 32 clash at Los Angeles Stadium, ending a tense contest that appeared destined for extra time.
Speaking after the historic win, the Canadian midfielder said the team’s determination and belief carried them through.
“I think we worked a lot to get this victory. We really wanted to give this win to all Canadians,” Eustaquio said.
“We just kept believing, kept pushing and I couldn’t have imagined it any other way. I think it was an amazing goal, but when I shot, I felt everyone shot with me.”
“They put a little bit of power on it and it went into the back of the net. So I am very happy.”
The match had offered few clear-cut chances, with both teams battling hard in a tactical contest.
Canada came closest before the breakthrough when Moïse Bombito’s powerful header was cleared off the goal line, while South Africa defended bravely until Eustaquio’s decisive strike broke the deadlock.
The victory represents another major 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 competition’s co-hosts, they have now reached the knockout stages for the first time.
Eustaquio credited Canada’s belief for their remarkable progress and expressed confidence ahead of the next round.
“It started when we came out of the group stage. I think when it comes to the knockouts of the World Cup, belief plays a big part. Now we’re going to get Morocco or the Netherlands and who knows? On a good day we can make things happen. Probably the quality is not going to be there, but if we keep believing and keep working, things might go our way.”
The emotional midfielder also revealed the personal motivation behind his performances.
“Everything I do is for my family, for my parents, for my girlfriend, for my daughter, for my friends back home and for everyone.”
Canada will now face either Morocco or the Netherlands in the Round of 16 as they continue their dream run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
