Eustaquio’s stoppage-time strike sends Canada into World Cup last 16

Stephen Eustaquio's dramatic 92nd-minute strike secured a historic 1-0 victory for Canada over South Africa, propelling the co-hosts into the World Cup last 16 for the first time ever. The midfielder hammered home a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area, beating goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and ending South Africa's tournament.

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We just kept believing, we kept pushing and I think we couldn’t have imagined it any other way.

The thrilling conclusion at Los Angeles Stadium saw South Africa, who had appeared content to play for extra time, make desperate but unsuccessful attempts to equalize. Canada's triumph marks a significant milestone for the nation's football program, achieving a feat they had never accomplished before.

"We just kept believing, we kept pushing and I think we couldn’t have imagined it any other way," Eustaquio said after the match. "When I shot it, I felt everybody shot it with me. Everybody put a little bit of power on it, and it went to the back of the net, so I’m very happy."

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When I shot it, I felt everybody shot it with me. Everybody put a little bit of power on it, and it went to the back of the net, so I’m very happy.

Coach Jesse Marsch lauded his team's character, calling them "Canadian heroes." Despite creating chances throughout the match, Marsch noted his team wasn't "lethal enough" until Eustaquio's decisive goal. Canada, who have overcome injuries, were bolstered by the return of captain Alphonso Davies, who provided a second-half spark in his 2026 World Cup debut. They now prepare to face either the Netherlands or Morocco on July 4 in Houston for a quarter-final spot.

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And then it falls to Steph and I just hope he’ll put it on frame and give it a chance and he buries it.

South Africa, despite their exit, can hold their heads high after reaching the knockout stage for the first time in four attempts. Midfielder Teboho Mokoena expressed regret over not being able to prevent Eustaquio's winning goal, stating, "If I had taken three more steps, I could have stopped that shot." The tournament also marked the World Cup finale for 74-year-old South Africa coach Hugo Broos.

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The hard work from these guys, the character - they’re Canadian heroes. That’s what I told them at the end. They are now Canadian heroes. I’m so happy for them.