Midfielder Stephen Eustáquio scored the dramatic, game-winning goal in the 92nd minute at Los Angeles Stadium, USA, on Monday morning.
History was written as Canada and South Africa qualified for the knockout stage of the 32-team World Cup for the first time. This means the winning team in the match in Los Angeles would achieve another feat, in addition to officially qualifying for the Round of 16.
In a closely contested match, Canada decided to increase the pressure in the second half when coach Jesse Marsch successively brought on Jacob Shaffelburg, Promise David, and Alphonso Davies to strengthen the attack.
Just when it seemed the match would end in a draw, in the 90+2 minute, Canada benefited from a scramble in the penalty area. Eustaquio unleashed a quick low shot from the edge of the penalty area, sending the ball into the bottom left corner of the net, beating Ronwen Williams to score the only goal of the match.
In the remaining minutes of added time, South Africa launched a full-scale attack with consecutive crosses from Oswin Appollis and Thalente Mbatha, but the Canadian defense held firm.
Ultimately, Canada secured all three points thanks to Eustaquio's moment of brilliance, advancing to the Round of 16 to face the winner of the Netherlands vs Morocco match.
