The Canadian national team advanced to the World Cup round of 16 for the first time thanks to a last-minute goal by Stephen Eustáquio and is now waiting to find out whether it will face the Netherlands or Morocco.
On Sunday, Canada wrote the most important chapter in its World Cup history. With a goal by captain Stephen Eustáquio in the 92nd minute, the Canadian team defeated South Africa 1-0 and advanced to the round of 16 of a World Cup for the first time.
Canada is the first team to qualify for the Round of 16
Here’s how Canada’s goal went down—a goal by Stephen Eustaquio that secured their spot in the Round of 16. With this goal, Canada defeated South Africa 1-0. #Canada🇨🇦pic.twitter.com/FmdzCmL2BF
— Liga MX vs MLS (@LigamxvsMls) June 28, 2026
Just when it looked like the match in Los Angeles was headed for overtime, Eustáquio stepped up to score the goal that sparked jubilation among the players, coaching staff, and fans.
The victory made “The Canucks” the first team to qualify for the round of 16 in the group stage and kept their hopes alive for the 2026 World Cup.
This achievement marks a turning point for Canadian soccer.
In its two previous appearances—Mexico 1986 and Qatar 2022—Canada failed to advance past the group stage.
Now, under the guidance of head coach Jesse Marsch, the team has broken through that barrier and secured a spot among the top 16 teams in the tournament.
“National heroes!”
‘ALPHONSO DAVIES COMES ON AND MAKES A DIFFERENCE’ 👊🏻 🇨🇦
Nacho Hierro, @RaoulPolloOrtiz, @FABIANESTAY10, and @CHermosillo27 discuss Canada’s victory over South Africa 🇿🇦
‘I DON’T SEE THEM BEATING THE NETHERLANDS OR MOROCCO’ 🤷♂️#LUP #LaCopaxFSMX pic.twitter.com/hKrQnbQC36
– FOX Sports MX (@FOXSportsMX) June 29, 2026
At the end of the game, Marsch didn’t hide his excitement and gathered his players on the field to acknowledge the significance of their achievement.
“You’re already national heroes!” exclaimed the American coach during the celebration with his players.
Although the game was far from spectacular, Canada showed defensive solidity and was rewarded in the final moments.
Their performance still raises doubts about their chances of advancing much further in the championship, but the result has already gone down in the country’s sports history.
Now, the Canadian national team is waiting to find out who its next opponent will be, which will be determined by the match between the Netherlands and Morocco.
That match will determine Canada’s opponent in the round of 16, scheduled to be played on July 4 in Houston.
Meanwhile, the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues with an intense round of 16.
Brazil will face Japan, Germany will take on Paraguay, and the Netherlands will try to secure its spot against Morocco.
The day also saw some significant developments off the field.
South Korea and Scotland announced the departure of their respective coaches after being eliminated in the group stage.
In addition, Uruguay confirmed a major setback for the coming months: Manuel Ugarte suffered a torn cruciate ligament in his left knee during the match against Spain, an injury that could sideline him for nine to 12 months.
Filed under: Canada is the first team to qualify for the Round of 16
