Ottawa, 30 June (H.S.): Canada's historic knockout-stage victory over South Africa at the FIFA World Cup 2026 has set a new television viewership record in the country. An estimated 11.8 million Canadians watched the match on television, making it the most-watched FIFA World Cup knockout fixture in Canadian history outside of the tournament finals.

In an official post on social media, FIFA Media said the match attracted an average audience of 5.2 million viewers throughout the broadcast. The figures are based on preliminary overnight viewership data, while the final consolidated audience numbers will be released after the conclusion of the tournament.

Canada created history by registering its first-ever victory in the knockout stage of a FIFA World Cup. The co-host nation will now face Morocco in the Round of 16 on July 4.

Morocco secured its place in the Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout following a thrilling pre-quarterfinal contest. The match ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time.

Cody Gakpo scored for the Netherlands, while Issa Diop equalised for Morocco in injury time to force the match into extra time. During the penalty shootout, Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved a spot-kick from Crysencio Summerville before Ismael Saibari converted the decisive penalty to seal Morocco's victory.

The upcoming encounter between Canada and Morocco will determine which team advances to the quarter-finals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar