Canada booked their place in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dramatic stoppage-time victory over South Africa, as Stephen Eustáquio’s late strike settled a fiercely contested Round of 32 encounter in Los Angeles.

The match was defined by missed opportunities, superb goalkeeping and relentless attacking pressure, with both sides producing an entertaining knockout contest.

South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was the standout performer in the opening half, producing a series of outstanding saves to frustrate the Canadians. In the 22nd minute, Derek Cornelius met a free-kick with a close-range header, but Williams reacted brilliantly to keep the scores level.

Canada continued to threaten before the break, with Moise Bombito and Tajon Buchanan both going close during a dangerous attacking spell. Williams once again came to South Africa’s rescue with two excellent saves, ensuring the teams went into halftime goalless.

The pressure continued after the restart, and in the 65th minute, Williams denied Tanitoluwa Oluwaseyi in a one-on-one situation, diving smartly to his right to preserve the deadlock.

Just as the match appeared destined for extra time, Canada found the breakthrough deep into stoppage time. Stephen Eustáquio reacted quickest to a loose ball on the edge of the area and drilled a low effort into the bottom corner to secure a dramatic 1-0 victory.

South Africa was left heartbroken after a disciplined defensive display was undone in the closing moments.

Canada will now face the winners of the Round of 32 clash between Morocco and the Netherlands for a place in the quarter-finals.