Stephen Eustáquio scored a late winner as Canada beat South Africa 1–0 at the 2026 World Cup. The round of 32 game was at SoFi Stadium near Los Angeles on Sunday 28 June. It was Canada’s first ever win in a World Cup knockout game.
Key Facts
- Result: Canada 1, South Africa 0.
- Goal: Stephen Eustáquio, in the second minute of added time.
- Crowd: 69,237, according to Canada Soccer.
- Record: Eustáquio created five chances from set pieces. Only Andrea Pirlo had done that in a World Cup knockout game, in 2006.
- History: Canada’s first World Cup knockout win.
The Winning Goal
The game looked like it was going to extra time. Then a long ball from Alistair Johnston was cleared to the edge of the box. Eustáquio chested it down and hit a volley into the bottom corner. South Africa keeper Ronwen Williams had no chance.
Matching Pirlo
Set pieces are corners and free kicks. Eustáquio made five chances from them in this game. Stats experts say only one other player has done that in a World Cup knockout game since 1966. That was Italy’s Andrea Pirlo, against Germany in the 2006 semi-final.
A Brave Effort From South Africa
Williams made five saves. South Africa had a shot on target early, but none after that. They defended hard for the whole game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored for Canada?
Stephen Eustáquio, in added time.
Was this Canada’s first World Cup knockout win?
Yes.
Who is Eustáquio being compared to?
Italy great Andrea Pirlo.
Conclusion
Canada coach Jesse Marsch and his team made history. Eustáquio, who plays for LAFC on loan from Porto, scored the goal of his life.
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