Canada reached the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in their history after Stephen Eustaquio scored a stoppage-time winner in a 1-0 victory over South Africa at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood.
South Africa were disciplined at the back and enjoyed 58.2% possession, but Canada stayed in the contest and struck in the final moments to secure a historic result.
The game remained goalless for most of the night and appeared to be heading toward penalties before Eustaquio produced the decisive moment. It was his first goal for Canada in two and a half years.
The chance came after Alistair Johnston advanced down the right and delivered a hopeful ball into the box. South Africa cleared it only to the edge of the area, where Eustaquio controlled it with his chest, let it bounce, and fired a low strike into the bottom corner, leaving Ronwen Williams stranded.
Canada had been kept out by South Africa’s defense on several occasions before the late breakthrough. In the second half, Tani Oluwaseyi forced a save from Williams, while Jonathan David was denied a chance to nod in the rebound after Mbekezeli Mbokazi made a brilliant clearance.
Moise Bombito also went close in the first half when he rose highest from a corner, but Aubrey Modiba cleared his header off the line to keep the score level.
After the final whistle, Canada coach Jesse Marsch praised his players for their character and commitment. “It’s about the two years we’ve been together,” Marsch told the team in a huddle.
Think about how we talked about sticking to the plan… you guys showing your character. You guys are Canadian heroes here.
Canada will now face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the next round on July 4 in Houston.
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