STEPHEN Eustaquio scored a dramatic winner in the second minute of injury time as co-hosts Canada defeated South Africa to move into the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time.
In a scrappy game short of clear-cut chances, and with extra time looming, Eustaquio provided a rare moment of quality with a superb low strike from the edge of the penalty area to give Canada the victory.
Canada had lost all six of their World Cup matches before this tournament, but this victory continued a superb competition for them.
They defeated Qatar 6-0 on 18 June for their first victory in a finals and this was another special moment for Jesse Marsch’s side as they became the first nation through to the last 16, where they will play either the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on Saturday, 4 July.
In a team huddle immediately after the final whistle, Marsch could be heard telling his players “you are Canadian heroes. The future of the sport in this country is huge because of you”.
South Africa had finished second in Group A, but produced a disappointing performance in Los Angeles, with only one shot on target and they looked happy to settle for extra time, before the decisive moment.
Canada’s Moise Bombito’s header was cleared off the line by South Africa’s Aubrey Modiba, before Marsch’s side thought they should have had a penalty after a challenge from Khuliso Mudau on Richie Laryea.
Marsch was incensed at the decision and tried to talk the officials at half-time, only to be stopped by Bombito.
Only some superb defending from Mbekezeli Mbokazi denied Jonathan David a goal with a vital block, with Canada having further chances following the introduction of Bayern Munich full-back Alphonso Davies, with Jonathan David and Promise David both coming close.
But Canada who had seven shots on target, got the victory they deserved late on to progress and eliminate South Africa.
