Canada Knock South Africa Out of 2026 FIFA World Cup with Last-Minute Winner

Canada booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa in the Round of 32, with Stephen Eustáquio scoring a heartbreaking stoppage-time winner.

The decisive goal came in the 92nd minute, crushing Bafana Bafana’s hopes of progressing after they had held the tournament co-hosts for the entire match.

The victory makes Canada the first team to qualify for the Round of 16 from the knockout stage and also marks the country’s first-ever appearance in the World Cup Round of 16.

Despite the painful defeat, South Africa leaves the tournament with pride after making history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time. Bafana Bafana secured their place in the Round of 32 after defeating South Korea 1-0 in their final group match earlier this week.

Speaking after the match, South Africa head coach Hugo Broos admitted the result was disappointing but praised his players for their efforts.

“We are disappointed because we wanted to win. It would have been a little miracle to get to the third round, but we do not have to be too disappointed. What we achieved here was good, and I am very happy and very proud of my team,” he said.

South African Football Association (SAFA) President Dr Danny Jordaan also commended the team, saying their performance had given the nation something to build on despite the elimination.

Canada will now face the winner between Morocco and the Netherlands in the Round of 16 as they continue their historic World Cup journey.