Stephen Eustaquio struck a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Canada edged South Africa 1-0 on Sunday to reach the World Cup last 16 for the first time in the nation’s history.
With both teams making their maiden appearance in the knockout rounds, the contest looked destined for extra time before Eustaquio broke South African hearts, rifling a first-time finish into the bottom corner from just outside the penalty area.
Canada, forced to play in Los Angeles despite being tournament co-hosts after finishing second in their group, will face either the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on July 4. South Africa’s impressive World Cup run, meanwhile, came to an end.
Before kick-off, Canada coach Jesse Marsch had highlighted the potential impact of Alphonso Davies, who returned to the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury.
But the Bayern Munich star, yet to feature at this World Cup, was again left out of the starting XI.
Canada nevertheless controlled the early stages, creating several openings against South Africa’s compact defensive block.
Their best first-half chance came in the 22nd minute when Eustaquio delivered a pinpoint free-kick onto the head of Derek Cornelius, who somehow failed to convert from close range.
South Africa offered occasional threats on the counterattack but survived a frantic spell before halftime. Moise Bombito’s header from a corner was cleared off the line before goalkeeper Ronwen Williams denied Tajon Buchanan’s follow-up effort.
Moments later, Khuliso Mudau bundled into the dangerous Richie Laryea, but Canada’s appeals for a penalty were dismissed.
The decision drew loud protests from a heavily pro-Canada crowd, whose frustration only grew after the break as South Africa slowed the tempo with patient possession deep in their own half.
Canada came within inches of breaking the deadlock just after the hour. Substitute Niko Sigur slipped Tani Oluwaseyi through on goal, but Williams produced another excellent save before Mbekezeli Mbokazi beat Jonathan David to the rebound with a crucial clearance.
Davies finally entered the match in the 75th minute to a thunderous ovation and immediately injected life into Canada’s attack.
The winger first picked out Jonathan David, whose layoff found fellow striker — and no relation — Promise David, but his effort drifted wide.
Minutes later, Davies again found Jonathan David, only for Williams to deny him from a tight angle.
Canada’s pressure was finally rewarded in the second minute of stoppage time.
Jacob Shaffelburg surged down the right and whipped in a cross that was headed only as far as Eustaquio. The Porto midfielder cushioned the ball on his chest before unleashing a superb first-time strike into the bottom-left corner, sparking wild celebrations on the Canada bench and in the stands.
The dramatic victory sends Canada into the World Cup’s last 16 for the first time, while South Africa depart after a spirited campaign.
AFP
