Canada secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa to book a historic place in the FIFA World Cup last 16. Stephen Eustaquio scored the decisive goal deep into stoppage time after both teams battled fiercely throughout the match.
The encounter looked destined for extra time before the Porto midfielder fired a brilliant first-time shot into the bottom corner. Canada created several clear chances but were repeatedly denied by South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and determined defending.
South Africa also threatened on the counterattack but failed to convert their opportunities.
Canada captain Alphonso Davies returned from injury as a second-half substitute and immediately added energy to his team’s attack. His introduction helped increase the pressure on the South African defence in the closing stages. Jacob Shaffelburg provided the crucial cross that eventually led to Eustaquio’s match-winning strike.
The victory sends Canada into the last 16 for the first time in the country’s World Cup history, where they will face either the Netherlands or Morocco.
South Africa’s impressive World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak after conceding in the closing moments of the match.
