World Cup results: Stephen Eustáquio's late goal sends Canada into the round of 16 after 1-0 win over South Africa

Stephen Eustáquio created the biggest moment in Canadian men's soccer history this past Sunday. Eustáquio scored in the 92nd minute, helping Canada win 1-0 in the World Cup round of 32 match against South Africa. His goal came from a clearance with the opponent's head, the ball fell right in front of him near the penalty area.

Before Eustáquio scored, the match looked like it would go into extra time. Canada missed many good opportunities in front of South Africa's goal due to unsuccessful shots and excellent defense by the opponent. However, Canada's World Cup dream continued as they reached the knockout round for the first time.

Canada will face either the Netherlands or Morocco on July 4 in Houston. Canada coach Jesse Marsch called his players "Canadian heroes" several times when speaking to the team after the game.


South Africa were content to let Canada control the game and the Canadian side appeared to have difficulty creating a lead. South Africa's Aubrey Modiba made a superb save on the line from a corner in the first half, in a situation where it looked like Canada was certain of a goal. In the second half, Canada had an excellent counterattack opportunity, but Mbkekezeli Mbokazi promptly blocked the deflected shot.

Canada forced South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to make five saves and had a total of 12 shots. Meanwhile, South Africa's attack was almost inactive, creating only 0.13 expected goals from six shots and only one shot on target.

Canada may have the services of Alphonso Davies in this round of 16 match. Davies missed the entire group stage as he continued to recover from a thigh muscle injury he suffered while playing for Bayern Munich in the spring. However, Marsch confirmed before Sunday's match that Davies would be available. He came on the field in the 75th minute and didn't seem to really be back in form, with many passes at the backfield going straight into the hands of the South African defenders. But Canada also became more dangerous when he operated on the left flank, even though before that the match looked like it would go into extra time before Eustáquio's goal.

With five days off between matches, Davies will likely be back to full fitness soon for the next match. And even if he can't play the entire time, Canada will need their star man on the field as long as possible to have a real chance of surprising Morocco or the Netherlands.

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