Stephen Eustaquio scored in injury time to send Canada into the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup – but the co-hosts had to do it 2,000 miles from home, becoming the first host nation in men's tournament history to play a match outside their own borders.
Eustaquio's 90th-minute strike was the only goal of the round of 32 clash at Los Angeles Stadium, sending South Africa packing. The game kicked off at 5pm UK time on Sunday, June 28, the first knockout fixture of the tournament.
“Stephen Eustaquio's stoppage-time goal sends Canada into last 16, but hosts forced to play away due to group finish.”
Canada's unusual travel was forced by their final standing in Group B. Needing a win or draw against Switzerland on Wednesday to top the group and stay in Vancouver, they lost 2-1, dropping to second place. The pre-set tournament bracket then dictated that the Group B runner-up would face Group A's second-placed team – South Africa – in Los Angeles. Had Canada secured top spot, they would have played at BC Place in Vancouver.
The victory means Canada progress to the last 16, where they will await their next opponent.