Photo credit Reuters
Canada has, on Sunday, defeated South Africa 1-0 in World Cup‘s first knockout match.
The Team booked a historic place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa, thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Stephen Eustáquio in the tournament’s first Round of 32 match.
Canada left it late but secured its first-ever men’s FIFA World Cup knockout-stage victory after Stephen Eustáquio scored in the 92nd minute at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
The Midfielder volleyed home from outside the penalty area after South Africa failed to clear a long ball, sending Canadian players, staff and supporters into celebration.
The match was a tense, physical contest with few clear-cut opportunities.
Canada controlled much of the possession and created the better chances, including a first-half effort cleared off the line and appeals for a penalty that were waved away.
South Africa defended resolutely for most of the afternoon and appeared set to force extra time before Eustáquio’s decisive intervention.
Canada coach Jesse Marsch praised his players after the final whistle, celebrating a landmark result for the co-host nation.
Captain Alphonso Davies returned from injury as a late substitute, adding to the emotional occasion even though the winning goal came moments later from Eustáquio.
The victory sends Canada into the Round of 16, where it will face the winner of the Netherlands–Morocco match on July 4.
South Africa exits the tournament after reaching the knockout stage for the first time in its World Cup history.
Fans gathered at Pat Bayly Civic Square, Ajax viewing the match via TV screen/Nigerian Kicker June 28th 2026.
Nigerian Kicker reports that, during the encounter, which was punctuated with tension and anxiety, Canada fans gathered in various public parks in Ontario to watch the match via Television screen and celebrated after the final whistle.
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