LOS ANGELES: Stephen Eustaquio struck deep into stoppage time to give Canada a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa on Sunday, sending the co-hosts into the World Cup last 16 for the first time in their history.
With both nations making their knockout-stage debut, the contest looked destined for extra time before Eustaquio controlled a clearance on his chest and fired a superb first-time effort into the bottom-left corner from outside the box.
Canada, playing in Los Angeles after finishing outside the top spot in their group, will face either the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on July 4.
Despite the return of Alphonso Davies from a hamstring injury, Canada coach Jesse Marsch kept the Bayern Munich star on the bench. Even without him, Canada dominated possession and created the better opportunities.
Derek Cornelius squandered a golden chance from an Eustaquio free-kick, while Moise Bombito had a header cleared off the line before Ronwen Williams denied Tajon Buchanan.
Canada continued to push after the break. Williams produced another fine save to stop Tani Oluwaseyi, while defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi cleared Jonathan David’s follow-up off the line.
Davies finally entered in the 75th minute and immediately lifted the tempo, creating chances for Jonathan David and Promise David, but Canada still could not find a breakthrough.
That changed in the second minute of stoppage time when Jacob Shaffelburg’s cross was only partially cleared. Eustaquio reacted quickest, controlling the ball before drilling home the winner, sparking wild celebrations from Canada’s players and supporters after a historic victory.
Published in Dawn, June 29th, 2026
