Eustaquio's Stoppage-Time Volley! Canada Edges South Africa 1-0, Makes Historic First-Ever World Cup Round of 16

The first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 kicked off at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on June 29 (Beijing time). The host nation Canada secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa thanks to a stunning stoppage-time volley from Stephen Eustaquio, marking their historic first-ever qualification for the World Cup Round of 16 and writing a new chapter in the nation's football history.

The match began with a midfield battle, and Canada created the first real chance. Forward Jonathan David found space in the box but failed to hit the target, while Cornelius's subsequent header was comfortably collected by the South African goalkeeper. South Africa attempted to threaten on the counter-attack, but their efforts were repeatedly snuffed out. Late in the first half, a Canadian corner led to a goalmouth scramble, and South African defender Mothiba made a last-ditch clearance off the line to keep the score level. The first half ended 0-0.

The second half saw a key turning point as Alphonso Davies, returning from a long injury layoff, came on as a substitute to make his World Cup debut. The deadlock was finally broken deep into stoppage time: in the 92nd minute, Eustaquio met a teammate's cross inside the box with a first-time volley that found the back of the net, sealing a dramatic win for Canada.

At the final whistle, Canada emerged 1-0 victors, securing their historic first-ever place in the World Cup Round of 16. They will face the winner of the Netherlands vs. Morocco match in the next round, while South Africa's journey ends at the Round of 32.