Canada reaches World Cup Round of 16 for the first time
Stephen Eustaquio scored the winning goal in stoppage time as Canada defeated South Africa 1-0 on Sunday in Los Angeles.
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Canada's men's national soccer team has advanced to the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in program history, defeating South Africa 1-0 in a dramatic knockout-stage match on Sunday, June 28, in Los Angeles.
Stephen Eustaquio found the back of the net in stoppage time to send Canada into the next round, capping a breakthrough performance on the sport's biggest stage.
The team received a major boost in the 75th minute when captain Alphonso Davies entered the match, marking his first appearance of the tournament after recovering from injury.
The historic victory sparked celebrations across the country. Prime Minister Mark Carney congratulated the team on social media, calling them "true Canadian heroes." Actor Matthew McConaughey also celebrated the win, writing on X, "Big congrats to Northern neighbor Canada." Retired soccer legend Christine Sinclair, the all-time international goals leader in men's or women's soccer, shared an emotional video reaction saying, "I'm crying."
Canada will face the winner of the Netherlands-Morocco match on July 4 in Houston to continue its World Cup run.
