Bafana Bafana's Oswin Appollis looks dejected after being knocked out of the World Cup by Canada.
Head coach Jesse Marsch hailed his "Canadian heroes" for making history by storming into the FIFA World Cup round of 16 on Sunday night, describing their upcoming knockout clash against either the Netherlands or Morocco as an absolute "free hit."
Co-hosts Canada entered the global showpiece having lost all six matches across their previous two tournament appearances, but they have now become the first nation to lock in their spot in the second knockout phase thanks to a breathless, last-gasp 1-0 victory over Bafana Bafana.
Marsch gathered his ecstatic squad on the pitch immediately after the final whistle, passionately telling the playing group, "You are Canadian heroes," during an emotional huddle that quickly went viral across digital platforms.
Speaking to reporters post-match, the American tactician admitted he wanted to instantly "voice to them how important a moment this will prove to be for the sport in the country."
