Canada have reached the FIFA World Cup round of 16 for the first time in their history after edging South Africa 1-0 in a dramatic round-of-32 clash on Sunday.
The breakthrough came deep into stoppage time when midfielder Stephen Eustaquio fired home a first-time strike in the 92nd minute. After a headed clearance dropped kindly on the edge of the penalty area, Eustaquio unleashed a superb effort into the bottom corner to seal a famous victory for the tournament co-hosts.
Both Canada and South Africa entered the knockout stage after advancing beyond the group phase for the first time at a World Cup.
Canada manager Jesse Marsch made several changes to his starting XI. Defender Moise Bombito returned from injury to partner the central defence, replacing Luc de Fougerolles, while Liam Millar came in on the left flank for Ali Ahmed. Tani Oluwaseyi also started in attack ahead of Cyle Larin.
Star full-back Alphonso Davies, who missed all three of Canada’s group matches, began on the bench before coming on in the 75th minute. His introduction gave Canada a major attacking boost, with his incisive passing and dangerous deliveries causing problems for South Africa’s defence.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos made just one alteration to the side that defeated South Korea 1-0 in their final group match, recalling midfielder Teboho Mokoena after he served a suspension.
The first half produced few clear-cut chances until the 44th minute, when Bombito’s powerful header from a corner was spectacularly cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba. Moments later, Tajon Buchanan pounced on the loose ball, but goalkeeper Ronwen Williams produced an outstanding close-range save to keep the scores level.
The contest remained evenly balanced after the break, although Canada gradually took control, especially after Davies entered the game.
Ranked 30th in the latest FIFA World Rankings, Canada finished second in Group B behind Switzerland, while 60th-ranked South Africa advanced as runners-up in Group A behind fellow co-hosts Mexico.
The victory sends Canada into the last 16, where they will face the winner of the match between the Netherlands and Morocco.
