Elegbede Abiodun
South Africa’s World Cup dreams hit the rock abruptly with Eustáquio’s goal while Canada advances to face the future.
Canada booked their place in the World Cup last 16 in dramatic fashion after a stoppage-time winner from Stephen Eustáquio secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Africa.
With the match seemingly destined for extra time, Eustáquio struck in the second minute of added time to break South African hearts and send the co-hosts into the Round of 16, sparking jubilant celebrations among the home supporters.
Both sides produced an evenly contested first half, with South Africa’s disciplined defence frustrating Canada’s attacking efforts. Despite enjoying more possession and creating the better chances, Canada were unable to find a breakthrough before the interval.
The tempo increased after the restart as Canada pressed for a winner. Nathan Saliba and Niko Sigur both tested the South African goalkeeper, while South Africa continued to threaten on the counter-attack and defended resolutely to keep the contest level.
Just as extra time appeared inevitable, Canada found the decisive moment.
In the second minute of stoppage time, Eustáquio pounced on a defensive lapse inside the penalty area and fired an emphatic finish beyond the goalkeeper to seal a memorable victory.
The dramatic late goal secured Canada’s progression to the knockout stages and marked another significant milestone for the tournament co-hosts, who continue to impress on home soil.
South Africa exit the competition with pride after a spirited campaign, but it is Canada who march on, buoyed by a dramatic victory that could prove to be a defining moment in their World Cup journey.
