World Cup 2026: Canada eliminate South Africa thanks to late Eustaquio goal

The two teams, having qualified after contrasting group-stage campaigns, met for a place in the round of 16. South Africa, coached by Hugo Broos and set up in a 4-2-3-1, had shown solidity despite enjoying the majority of possession (57%). Jesse Marsch’s Canada, deployed in a 4-4-2, proved clinical and efficient, notably making the most of their chances in the South African penalty area.

The match was tense and closely contested, with clear-cut chances few and far between. South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams stood out with several decisive saves, finishing the match with five essential stops. For Canada, Stephen Eustaquio was influential in midfield and scored the winning goal in stoppage time, sending his team through.

The substitutions enlivened the second half, with Canada making several attacking and defensive changes from the 59th minute onward with the introductions of Moise Bombito, Niko Sigur, Jacob Shaffelburg, Tani Oluwaseyi, and Tajon Buchanan. In response, South Africa tried to get back into the match with the contributions of Ernest Makgopa and Thapelo Maseko late on. However, the Canadian block remained solid until the final whistle.

On the disciplinary front, Canada picked up two yellow cards, while South Africa remained free of sanctions. Possession and the number of shots were in the South Africans’ favor (57% possession, 5 shots including 1 on target), but the Canadians capitalized on their 11 attempts (6 on target). The difference therefore came down to attacking precision and management of momentum.

South Africa in a 4-2-3-1 system with a solid defense

Led by Hugo Broos, South Africa took the field in a classic 4-2-3-1. Ronwen Williams, the goalkeeper, was a defensive pillar, while the back line featured Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Aubrey Modiba. The defensive midfield pairing of Teboho Mokoena and Sphephelo Sithole looked to stabilize the middle, supported by Thapelo Maseko, Relebohile Mofokeng and Oswin Appollis in playmaking roles and supporting striker Evidence Makgopa.

Canada deployed in a 4-4-2 with Eustaquio driving midfield and dangerous wingers

Jesse Marsch’s Canada opted for a solid and direct 4-4-2. Maxime Crépeau was in goal. The defense was made up of Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius and Richie Laryea. The midfield included Nathan-Dylan Saliba and Stephen Eustaquio, whose leadership role was confirmed, while Liam Millar and Tajon Buchanan operated on the flanks. In attack, Jonathan David and Tani Oluwaseyi led the front line. These tactical choices allowed Canada to control transitions and remain dangerous in attacking phases, illustrated by their central midfielder’s decisive goal at the very end of the match.