Key Takeaways:
- Stephen Eustaquio scored a 92nd-minute winner for Canada.
- Canada advances to face Morocco or Netherlands on July 4.
- The World Cup match at SoFi Stadium drew 69,237 fans.
Canada secured a 1-0 victory over South Africa in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 28, 2026. A 92nd-minute stoppage-time goal from Stephen Eustaquio ensured the World Cup co-hosts became the first team to book their place in the last 16. The dramatic late winner came in front of an attendance of 69,237, shifting the live FIFA World Cup odds just as the match appeared destined for extra time and potential penalties.
Dramatic Finish Sidesteps Extra Time
South Africa delivered a stoic defensive performance that frustrated Canada for most of the fixture, showing the same resilience that has made them a popular choice in Africa Cup of Nations betting. Aubrey Modiba cleared a Moise Bombito header off the line in the 44th minute, while Mbekezeli Mbokazi made a heroic challenge to deny Jonathan David an open goal. South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams also produced crucial saves, including denying Tanu Oluwaseyi in the 65th minute before Mbokazi cleared the second ball.
Canada also had a penalty appeal denied just before half-time when Richie Laryea went down under a challenge from Khuliso Mudau inside the area. Replays showed a small touch on the ball from Mudau, and following a VAR review, the on-field decision was confirmed. The game remained deadlocked until Eustaquio chested the ball down inside the box and struck a half-volley into the far corner to seal the win, a thrilling finish that mirrors the late drama often seen across Copa América betting markets.
Looking Ahead in the Knockout Bracket
Eustaquio created five chances from set-pieces, matching Andrea Pirlo's record for the most in a World Cup knockout game, and recorded five key passes, drawing significant attention across FIFA World Cup betting markets. The stoppage-time victory propels Canada into the last 16, where they will face either Morocco or the Netherlands in Houston on July 4. The historic win marks Canada's first-ever knockout game victory at a World Cup.
At full-time, head coach Jesse Marsch joined his players in celebrating the milestone victory with the supporters. Addressing his team on the pitch, Marsch said, "We talked about sticking to the plan, sticking to who we want to be. Playing aggressive, accessing the qualities." He continued, "You guys showing your character, you guys are Canadian heroes now. Canadian heroes, for the future children of this country."
