Stephen Estaquio’s late strike led Canada to a 1-0 win over South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 fixture, and send the co-hosts to the round of 16 at the California stadium on Sunday.
The midfielder finished from just outside the area to send Canada to their first ever round of 16 appearance in the country’s World Cup history.
In the first round of 32 match, and the first-ever competitive meeting between both nations, South Africa had more possession but Canada were better in front of goal and were only thwarted by South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Willimans who made five saves to keep the Bafana Bafana in the match.
After Hugo Broos’ South Africa threatened in the sixth minute, it was all Canada with the better opportunities in the fast-paced match, as Cyle Larin and Jonathan David were thwarted by Williams in the first half. Related News Paris Diamond League: Tobi Amusan wins women’s 100m hurdles Rapper Drake bets $770,000 on Canada to defeat S’Africa at World Cup South Korea president apologises after World Cup group-stage exit
Thapelo Maseko tested Maxime Crepeau early in the second half with a curling effort well saved, while Jacob Shaffelburg’s effort was again tipped away by Williams.
