A stunning 92nd-minute volley from midfielder Stephen Eustaquio lifted co-hosts Canada to a historic 1-0 victory over South Africa at SoFi Stadium on Sunday night, sealing the first knockout win in World Cup history.In a tense, high-stakes battle that seemed destined for extra time, Eustaquio, who plays local club soccer for Los Angeles FC, became the ultimate hometown hero. In the second minute of stoppage time, Alistair Johnston’s long ball into the box was cleared directly into the path of the midfielder, who fired a stunning first-time strike into the bottom corner of Ronwen Williams’ net from outside the penalty area.The dramatic goal sparked wild celebrations, and after Canada endured a chaotic final few minutes, emotional head coach Jesse Marsch gathered his players in a post-game huddle, proudly declaring, “You are Canada’s heroes!” With this triumph, Canada advances to the round of 16, where they will face the Netherlands or Morocco on Saturday, July 4, in Houston.Canada played its three group games at home in Toronto and Vancouver, but was forced to play on the road after losing 2-1 to Switzerland. However, they remained big crowd favorites in Los Angeles, aided by traveling fans and local LAFC fans wearing Eustáquia jerseys.Canada dominated the scoring chances, but underdogs South Africa, fresh off a historic 1-0 win against South Korea, defended resolutely. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made five key saves to keep Bafana Bafana level.The game changed completely in the 75th minute when Canadian superstar Alphonso Davies made a long-awaited return following a hamstring injury that kept him out during the group stage. Playing at the same stadium where he suffered a serious knee injury in March 2025, the Bayern Munich defender provided an immediate spark, opening up the South African defense to set up Promise David, who uncharacteristically fired wide.In the end, Eustáquia’s late brilliance broke the South African resistance, keeping Canada’s World Cup dream alive.
