By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Photo Credit: FIFA.
South Africa’s fairytale run in the 2026 Fifa World Cup ended in heartbreak as a stoppage time goal from Stephen Eustaquio sent Canada into to the last 16 at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
Eustáquio — who plays professionally for Los Angeles FC several miles away — put a stunning volley from outside the penalty area into the bottom corner of Ronwen Williams’ net.
Canada’s best opening came just before halftime when a corner sparked a scramble in the South Africa box, Moise Bombito sending a header goalward that was cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba before Tajon Buchanan’s close-range effort struck Williams in the chest.
Moments later, Richie Laryea went down in the area, prompting Canadian appeals for a penalty, but the decision not to award a spot kick stood after a VAR review, prompting loud boos from Canada’s red-clad army of supporters, who dominated the stands.
Relebohile Mofokeng was unable to have the same influence on the game that he did against South Korea and Czechia. And he was taken off at half time with Thalente Mbatha coming on to add a more physical presence in the middle.
Both sides battled to create chances in a cagey opening to the second half. Khuliso Mudau briefly livened up proceedings by putting the ball through the legs of two Canada players, which ultimately saw Nathan Saliba booked for a cynical tackle.
Canada had a chance to go in front two minutes later as Tani Oluwaseyi burst clear and his shot was blocked by Williams. The ball looped up into the air and Mbekezeli Mbokazi did brilliantly to clear the ball.
The North Americans were finally rewarded for their late pressure with Eustáquio’s stoppage-time winner, sending his country into a historic Round of 16.
Co-host Canada hung on with strong defensive play in the final minutes and advanced to face the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on Saturday, July 4.