World Cup 2026: Late Eustáquio strike sends Canada into Round of 16 after South Africa triumph

Canada were repeatedly denied in the opening stages by an inspired display from Ronwen Williams, who kept South Africa level with a series of outstanding saves.

At 22 minutes, Derek Cornelius met a free kick inside the box and directed a header towards goal, but Williams reacted brilliantly to keep it out with a sharp reflex stop.

South African goalkeeper frustrates Canada’s attacking surge

Canada continued to pile on the pressure and came close again just before half-time. Moïse Bombito saw a header blocked before Tajon Buchanan reacted to the rebound, only to be denied by another stunning save from Williams.

The South African keeper remained the difference-maker, producing save after save to keep his side in the contest.

Oluwaseyi and Jonathan David denied as chances pile up

After the break, Canada’s intensity did not drop. At 65 minutes, Tanitoluwa Oluwaseyi found himself one-on-one with Williams, but the goalkeeper once again came out on top with a superb diving stop.

Later, Jonathan David looked set to break the deadlock from inside the box, only for Williams to produce yet another brilliant save to frustrate Canada.

Promise David also went close with a long-range effort that narrowly missed the target, as South Africa were pushed deeper into their own half.

Eustáquio delivers decisive blow in stoppage time

With the match heading towards extra time, Canada finally found their breakthrough in the dying moments. Stephen Eustáquio reacted quickest to a loose ball on the edge of the box and drilled a low finish into the bottom corner to seal a dramatic 1–0 victory.

South Africa were left heartbroken after a disciplined defensive effort was undone in stoppage time.

Canada advance to face Morocco or Netherlands

Canada will now turn their attention to the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of the clash between Morocco and Netherlands.