Inglewood, 29 June (H.S.):

Co-hosts Canada created history on Sunday by defeating South Africa 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 to secure a place in the Round of 16 for the first time in the nation's history. Captain Stephen Eustáquio scored a stunning long-range goal deep into second-half stoppage time to seal a memorable victory for his side.

The contest remained evenly balanced and fiercely competitive throughout, with both teams creating several scoring opportunities but failing to find the breakthrough. As the match appeared destined for extra time, Eustáquio unleashed a powerful strike from outside the penalty area in stoppage time, sending the ball beyond the reach of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and into the back of the net.

After conceding, South Africa threw everything forward in search of a late equaliser, but Canada's defence stood firm to repel every attack and secure a historic 1-0 victory.

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch praised his players after the match, saying the team had remained committed to the process and the strategy developed over the past two years, and that dedication had now been rewarded with a landmark achievement.

The first half witnessed an intense battle between the two sides. Canada came close to taking the lead just before the break when Moïse Bombito's header was cleared off the goal line, while Tajon Buchanan's effort was brilliantly saved by Williams. Richie Laryea's appeal for a penalty was also rejected following a VAR review.

Canada continued to press aggressively in the second half. Tani Oluwaseyi and Jonathan David both came close to scoring, but South Africa's defenders produced a series of excellent interventions to keep the match level. However, Eustáquio's dramatic stoppage-time winner ultimately settled the contest.

Canada will now face either the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on July 4 for a place in the quarter-finals.

Brief Score:

Canada 1 (Stephen Eustáquio) defeated South Africa 0.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar