Eustaquio sends Canada into last 16

Canada reached the World Cup last 16 for the first time after Stephen Eustaquio’s dramatic stoppage‑time goal secured a 1-0 win over South Africa in Los Angeles. With both nations making their knockout debuts, the match seemed destined for extra time until Eustaquio controlled a loose clearance and drilled a precise finish into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations from Canada’s bench. Co-hosts Canada, forced to play away from home after finishing second in their group, will meet either the Netherlands or Morocco on July 4 in Houston.

Alphonso Davies, returning from a hamstring injury, began on the bench and entered in the 75th minute, immediately lifting Canada’s tempo. Earlier chances fell to Derek Cornelius, Moise Bombito and Jonathan David, while South Africa threatened on counters but lacked cutting edge. Substitute Tani Oluwaseyi nearly broke the deadlock before Eustaquio’s decisive strike ended South Africa’s spirited campaign and confirmed Canada’s historic milestone.