Canada created history by defeating South Africa 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 on Sunday at Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood . Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic last-minute winning goal to send the co-hosts into the Round of 16 for the first time in their FIFA World Cup history.
Canada will now face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the next round on July 4.
How did Canada win the match?
The match was looking all but clear to get into extra time, but in the 92nd minute, Stephen Eustaquio got a ball near the penalty area, which he fired into the net with a powerful shot. South Africa tried to score an equaliser in the final moments, but Canada’s defence stayed strong and secured a famous 1-0 victory.
What happened during the match?
The first half was closely fought, with very few clear chances. Canada’s best opportunity came just before half-time when Moise Bombito’s header was cleared off the goal line by Aubrey Modiba. Soon after, Tajon Buchanan’s shot was saved by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Canada also appealed for a penalty after Richie Laryea went down inside the box. However, after a VAR review, the referee decided not to award a penalty.
In the second half, Canada continued to attack but struggled to find a goal. Tani Oluwaseyi came close, but his shot was saved, and Jonathan David could not convert the rebound because of a brilliant goal-line clearance by Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
What did Stephen Eustaquio and Jesse Marsch say?
After scoring the winning goal, Stephen Eustaquio said the team never stopped believing.
He said everyone kept pushing until the end and described it as an unforgettable moment. He added that it felt like the whole team put power into his winning shot.
Canada coach Jesse Marsch praised his players for their hard work and fighting spirit. He called them “Canadian heroes” after the historic victory and said the team deserved the special moment.
What does this result mean to Canada?
Canada have now reached the Round of 16 for the first time in their FIFA World Cup history. They will next play either the Netherlands or Morocco for a place in the quarter-finals.
South Africa’s World Cup journey has come to an end, but the team can still be proud after reaching the knockout stage for the first time. Head coach Hugo Broos also hinted that this could be his final FIFA World Cup, saying he will decide his future in the coming days.