FIFA 2026: Canada created history, this star player changed the entire match in the 75th minute, made place in top 16 for the first time

FIFA Canada vs South Africa Round of 32: Canada created history in the first match of the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Canadian team performed brilliantly and defeated South Africa 1-0. With this victory at the Los Angeles Stadium, Canada created history. For the first time, the Canadian team has confirmed its place in the final top 16 of the FIFA World Cup.

South Africa seemed to dominate Canada from the beginning of the match, and the team tried to put pressure on the defense through continuous aggressive play. Some good moves were seen from South Africa, but the team could not convert them into goals. On the other hand, Canada had two good chances to score in the last minutes of the first half, but the team could not capitalize on these opportunities.

No goals were scored in the first half

Moise Bombito’s brilliant header was cleared by South African defender Aubrey Modiba near the goalline, while Tajon Buchanan’s excellent shot was saved by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. No goals could be scored by either team in the first half.

With this incredible goal, in extra time, Canada 🇨🇦 is heading to the final 16 for the first time in World Cup history ⚽️

Huge congrats to the entire team @CANMNT_Official— you have made all of Canada proud! pic.twitter.com/YPNTRv3eZA

— Danielle Smith (@ABDanielleSmith) June 28, 2026

In the second half, the Canadian team appeared to play more aggressively and made continuous attacks on the South African goal. However, South Africa’s strong defense prevented Canada from taking the lead. In the 75th minute, Canada made a bold decision by fielding star player Alphonso Davis. Coming into the game, Davis put pressure on the South African defense with his pace and excellent dribbling skills.

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Canada scored a strong goal in injury time

The match seemed to be heading towards extra time, but then in the second minute of injury time, Canadian captain Stephen Eustaquio made a brilliant shot from outside the box, which went straight to the goal post. The African team was stunned by this goal.

This goal of Stephen proved to be decisive and he gave the fans of the co-host team a chance to dance. Canada has confirmed its place in the last 16 for the first time after the Round of 32. Earlier, in 1986 and 2022, Canada had come to play the FIFA World Cup, but both the times the team’s journey ended in the group stage itself.