FIFA World Cup: Canada defeats South Africa and qualifies for Round of 16

Canada defeated South Africa 1-0 in their World Cup Round of 32 knockout match in Los Angeles. Canada will now move on to the Round of 16, playing either Morocco or the Netherlands in Houston on July 4.

Eustaquio received the ball at the edge of the South Africa penalty area and struck it powerfully past diving goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, ending the first knockout match of the tournament in a thrilling way on Sunday.

South Africa, who seemed satisfied to aim for extra time and possibly a penalty shootout, made a few strong but unsuccessful attempts to equalize before the final whistle as the sun came out at Los Angeles Stadium.

Canada will next play either the Netherlands or Morocco on July 4 in Houston for a place in the quarterfinals.

“It’s about the two years we’ve been together,” Canada coach Jesse Marsch told the team in a huddle after the final whistle.

“Think about how we talked about sticking to the plan, you guys showing your character. You guys are Canadian heroes here.”

Chances were limited in a tight first half, with little difference between the two teams, who were both playing in the knockout rounds for the first time.

Canada’s best chance came just before half-time when a corner led to confusion in the South Africa penalty area. Moise Bombito’s header went toward goal but was cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba, before Tajon Buchanan’s close-range shot hit Williams in the chest.

Shortly after, Richie Laryea fell in the penalty area, leading to Canadian appeals for a penalty, but the decision not to give a penalty stayed after a VAR review, causing loud boos from Canada’s fans in the stands.

Marsch continued to protest as both teams went off at half-time, while Bombito seemed to ask him to move away from the referee.