2 min learnJun 29, 2026 03:13 AM IST
A later 92nd minute winner from Stephen Eustaquio helped co-hosts of the continuing FIFA World Cup develop into the primary crew to safe a spot within the Spherical of 16 after overcoming South Africa. The match appeared destined to be determined in further time or penalties, when Eustaquio slotted his shot to the proper of the South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams on the Los Angeles Stadium.
“You guys are Canadian heroes! Canadian heroes!” Canada coach Jesse Marsch was heard telling his gamers in a huddle after the ultimate whistle.
It was a battle between two groups that had by no means made it to the knockout section of a World Cup earlier than this – and Canada will now proceed their World Cup journey. They are going to face the winner of the Netherlands versus Morocco conflict within the final 16.
It was a heartbreaking finish to the marketing campaign for South Africa. Ronwen Williams pulled off 5 saves for South Africa whereas their opponents had 12 makes an attempt together with seven on track. However ultimately, his resistance broke as Eustaquio’s shot snuck previous him.
The sport additionally noticed Canada obtain a lift when star Alphonso Davies lastly made a substitute look within the seventy fifth minute. He got here on for his first World Cup motion after lacking group play with a hamstring damage.
The playmaking Bayern Munich defender missed group play after injuring his hamstring final month for the third time this yr, however lastly returned in the identical stadium the place he tore a knee ligament in March 2025 in CONCACAF Nations League play.
Davies instantly made the most effective go of the day to arrange Promise David for a golden likelihood, however he hit it huge.
(With inputs from AP)