Canada’s late breakthrough turns first knockout win into a landmark moment

Canada are through to the FIFA World Cup round of 16 after a 1-0 win over South Africa, sealed by Stephen Eustáquio’s volley in the 92nd minute. The result gives Canada their first-ever victory in a World Cup knockout match.

The match was staged at SoFi Stadium in the Los Angeles area rather than in Vancouver after Canada finished second in Group B following a 2-1 loss to Switzerland. Even away from home soil, the crowd of more than 69,000 included a visible Canadian presence, adding to the sense of occasion.

Jesse Marsch framed the win as more than a result, praising the players and underlining what the moment could mean for football in Canada. His comments reflected both pride in the squad and the emotional weight of guiding Canada through a historic tournament step.

Canada’s reward is a round-of-16 meeting with the winner of Netherlands vs. Morocco. Marsch described the next challenge as a chance to test Canada against a major football nation, while Eustáquio’s late goal ensures this team has already changed the program’s World Cup story.