Canada World Cup Eustaquio sends hosts into last 16 with late winner

Captain Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner as co-hosts Canada defeated South Africa 1-0 on Sunday to reach the last 16 of the World Cup.

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The match appeared set for extra time before Eustaquio produced the decisive moment in the 92nd minute at SoFi Stadium.

The Porto midfielder, currently on loan at Los Angeles FC, controlled the ball on his chest before firing a low strike from outside the penalty area. His shot beat South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and found the bottom corner.

The goal settled a tense contest that created few clear chances. Canada’s bench rushed onto the pitch as supporters celebrated a historic victory.

Canada defender Alistair Johnston said the team felt relieved and excited after progressing.

He described the result as a memorable moment and said the team expected a difficult match.

Canada reached the knockout stage for the first time in World Cup history. However, finishing second in their group forced them to leave Vancouver and play this tie in the United States.

They will now travel to Houston for a last-16 match on Saturday against either the Netherlands or Morocco, who meet on Monday.

Canada also received a boost from the return of Alphonso Davies. The Bayern Munich defender made his first appearance of the tournament after recovering from injury. It also marked his first international appearance in more than a year.

South Africa exited the tournament despite recording their best World Cup campaign. The team reached the knockout rounds for the first time.

African teams also set a tournament milestone. Nine nations from the continent advanced to the knockout stage in the expanded 48-team competition.

Attention now turns to Monday’s fixtures, including a highly anticipated meeting between Brazil and Japan.

Brazil advanced as group winners and continue their pursuit of a first World Cup title since 2002. Carlo Ancelotti’s side enters the knockout phase with strong momentum led by Vinicius Junior and his four goals.

Japan reached this stage after finishing second in their group with one win and two draws.

Coach Hajime Moriyasu said his team remained united and believed it could challenge Brazil.

Elsewhere, South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo resigned following the team’s group-stage elimination.

Iran also confirmed it would leave its training base in Tijuana after missing qualification for the knockout rounds.