World Cup: Canada Secures Place in Round of 16 After Edging South Africa

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Canadian national team secured their place in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after narrowly defeating South Africa 1-0 in the Round of 32 match at the Los Angeles Stadium, United States, on Monday. Politics

Stephen Eustaquio's dramatic goal in injury time in the second half gave Canada a dramatic victory.

Throughout the match, Canada was dominant and took the initiative to attack from the start. The first chance came in the 6th minute, while Derek Cornelius' header in the 22nd minute from a dead ball situation was saved by Williams.

South Africa, on the other hand, opted for a more patient play, relying on quick counterattacks. Bafana Bafana's solid defense made it difficult for Canada to create clear-cut chances, resulting in a scoreless scoreline at halftime.

Entering the second half, South Africa began to boldly attack. Oswin Appollis threatened with a long-range shot in the 64th minute, but the ball went just wide. Football

Coach Jesse Marsch then brought on Alphonso Davies in the 75th minute to increase the attacking power.

The captain's presence revitalized Canada's attack, and Jonathan David nearly broke the deadlock in the 79th minute. However, a brilliant save from Williams thwarted the opportunity.

Just as the match looked set to go to extra time, Eustaquio emerged as the hero.

From a South African clearance to the edge of the penalty area, Eustaquio controlled the ball with his chest before unleashing a powerful volley into the bottom corner. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was unable to stop the ball.

His goal in the 92nd minute sealed Canada's victory and ended South Africa's struggles in the first knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup.

In the round of 16, Canada will face the winner of the Netherlands vs. Morocco match.

Lineups

South Africa: Ronwen Williams; Aubrey Modiba, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Ime Okon, Khuliso Mudau; Yaya Sithole, Teboho Mokoena; Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng (Thalente Mbatha 45'), Thapelo Maseko (Tshepang Moremi 86'); Evidence Makgopa (Iqraam Rayners 86')

Canada: Maxime Crepeau; Richie Laryea, Derek Cornelius, Moise Bombito (Luc de Fougerolles 59'), Alistair Johnston; Liam Millar (Jacob Shaffelburg 70'), Stephen Eustaquio, Nathan Lintasa (Niko Sigur 59'), Tajon Buchanan (Alphonse David 75'); Tani Oluwaseyi (Promise David 70'), Jonathan David

(*)

Read: Brazil vs Japan Prediction in 2026 World Cup Round of 32

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