Canada reach last 16 with stoppage-time win over South Africa

South Africa advanced out of Group A as the second place team after earning 4 points.

Canada were signposted as favourites for the game despite leaving behind home comforts for the first time, failure to take top spot in Group B meaning they surrendered home advantage to Switzerland.

The 2026 World Cup knockout rounds are finally here, following two weeks of exciting — and sometimes unpredictable – soccer action.

A late second-half goal from Stephen Eustáquio allowed Canada to inch past South Africa in the opening game of the World Cup’s Round of 32, sending Les Rouges through to the next round.