Praise pours in for ‘true Canadian heroes’ after last-minute World Cup win

Canada's national soccer team has advanced to the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026 for the first time in their history. This historic achievement was secured by a 92nd-minute goal from Stephen Eustaquio in a match against South Africa. Following the victory, the team received widespread praise from various prominent figures, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre. Head coach Jesse Marsch commended his players as "Canadian heroes" for their performance and character. The team's success is seen as a significant moment for Canadian football, inspiring future generations.

Stephen Eustaquio, born in Canada to Portuguese parents, scored the winning goal for Canada against South Africa in the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 match, securing Canada's historic advancement. The 29-year-old midfielder has a career that has seen him play for both Canada and Portugal at various youth and senior levels. Eustaquio's journey has been marked by personal tragedy, with the recent deaths of both his parents. He has represented Canada 61 times, scoring his sixth international goal in the crucial World Cup match. Eustaquio currently plays for Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC.

Canada has advanced to the FIFA World Cup last 16 for the first time in their history after defeating South Africa 1-0. Stephen Eustaquio scored the decisive goal in stoppage time from outside the penalty area, beating goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. The match, Canada's first knockout-round game in a World Cup, concluded with South Africa making late, unsuccessful attempts to equalize. Canada will now face either the Netherlands or Morocco on July 4 in Houston. Coach Jesse Marsch praised his team's character and commitment to their plan following the historic victory.

Canada secured a 1-0 victory over South Africa in their first World Cup knockout match on Sunday, June 28, 2026, in Inglewood, California. Stephen Eustáquio scored the decisive goal in the second minute of second-half stoppage time with a volley from outside the penalty area. This win marks Canada's first knockout stage victory in a World Cup. Despite a tense match that appeared headed for extra time, Canada's strong defense held on. The team, with coach Jesse Marsch calling them "Canadian heroes," will advance to face the Netherlands or Morocco. South Africa's goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made five saves, and the team, known as Bafana Bafana, also had chances throughout the game.

Egypt secured their first-ever World Cup victory by defeating New Zealand 3-1 in Vancouver. After trailing 1-0 at halftime, Egypt rallied in the second half with goals from Mohamed Salah and Mostafa Zico, who each contributed a goal and an assist. Trezeguet added a third goal to seal the win. This victory propels Egypt to the top of Group G, strengthening their position for the knockout stages. New Zealand, who had taken the lead through Finn Surman's header, now faces an uphill battle to advance.