South Africa were eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 28, 2026, following a 1-0 defeat to Canada in a Round of 32 match played on Sunday in USA.
The decisive moment arrived in the second minute of second-half stoppage time when Stephen Eustaquio pounced on a poor clearance and struck a low effort from outside the box into the bottom-left corner, sealing Canada’s progression.
Canada dominated large phases of the game, producing 12 shots to South Africa’s 3, with 7 on target. Both sides were appearing in their first-ever World Cup knockout match, adding historic weight to the encounter.
South Africa showed defensive resilience, with goalkeeper Ronwen Williams making key saves and his backline producing crucial interventions, including a goal-line clearance to deny Canada in the first half. A stoppage-time penalty appeal for Canada was reviewed and rejected.
Canada’s Alphonso Davies returned from injury in the 75th minute and immediately contributed to attacking play, highlighting his influence despite limited minutes. Canada advance to the round of 16 in Houston, where they will face the winner of Morocco and the Netherlands, who meet on Monday in Monterrey, Mexico.