Anthony Nlebem
Co-hosts Canada became the first team to book a place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA 2026 World Cup after a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa on Sunday.
Stephen Eustaquio struck deep into stoppage time to send Canada into the last 16, breaking South African hearts in a tense Round of 32 clash at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
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With both sides making their first-ever appearance beyond the World Cup group stage, the contest looked destined for extra time before Eustaquio produced the decisive moment in the 92nd minute.
The Porto midfielder, who spent last season on loan at Los Angeles FC, controlled the ball on his chest before unleashing a superb strike from just outside the penalty area that beat South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and nestled into the bottom corner.
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The late goal settled a tightly contested match that produced few clear-cut chances, sparking wild celebrations as Canada’s substitutes and coaching staff poured onto the pitch at the final whistle.
“We are excited that we’re still playing and relieved that we managed to get over the line. It was a difficult match, and we knew it was going to be,” Canada defender Alistair Johnston said.
“It’s still a pinch-me moment, honestly. We just won a knockout-round match at a World Cup.”
Canada are competing in the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time after finishing second in their group behind Switzerland.
Because they did not top the group, the co-hosts had to leave Vancouver for the United States to face South Africa in Los Angeles.
Canada will now travel to Houston for a Round of 16 clash on Saturday against either the Netherlands or Morocco, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
Anthony Nlebem
Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.
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