Ranked 30th in the latest FIFA world rankings, the Canadian team has reached the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time. They defeated South Africa 1-0 in the tournament’s Round of 32 match on June 29.
A last-gasp goal by Stephen Eustáquio propelled co-hosts Canada into the next round, where they will face the winner of the Netherlands vs. Morocco match at Houston Stadium.
It was a tough contest against a talented and spirited South African side, but Canada created better chances throughout the match, and Eustáquio netted the winning goal in stoppage time.
Neither team had ever reached the knockout stage before. Canada had already achieved several historic milestones in the FIFA World Cup, including securing their first-ever point and first victory in the tournament. Now, having booked their place in the Round of 16, Canada has the opportunity to build on their impressive performance and further establish themselves on the global stage.
South Africa defeated in stoppage time
South Africa displayed some excellent play in the first half at Los Angeles Stadium but missed out on the final touch. They were denied a goal twice just before half-time; Aubrey Modiba cleared a header by Moïse Bombito off the goal-line, while Ronwen Williams made a brilliant save to stop Tajon Buchanan from scoring.
Canada regained control after the match resumed. Williams brilliantly saved a shot from Tani Oluwaseyi, and before the attacker could score on the rebound, Mbekezeli Mbokazi cleared the ball away.
The crowd’s excitement soared when Alphonso Davies took the field in the 75th minute. He posed a threat to South Africa with his pace and trickery; however, it was Eustáquio who ultimately decided the match. In stoppage time, he perfectly controlled a bouncing ball at the edge of the box and fired it into the bottom corner.