• Canada scores a late winner to defeat South Africa 1-0.
• Stephen Eustaquio's stoppage-time goal marks Canada's first World Cup knockout round victory.
• The win qualifies Canada for the last 16 for the first time in history.
• Canada's next match is against either the Netherlands or Morocco on July 4.
• Coach Jesse Marsch praises the team's character and determination throughout their journey.

In a thrilling encounter on June 28 at Los Angeles Stadium, Canada secured a historic 1-0 victory over South Africa, propelled by a stoppage-time goal from Stephen Eustaquio. This victory marked Canada's advancement to the last 16 in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history. Eustaquio struck from the edge of the penalty area, sending the ball past diving goalkeeper Ronwen Williams just before the final whistle, thrilling the Canadian supporters in attendance, according to Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Channel News Asia.

The match unfolded with both teams displaying caution; opportunities were limited, particularly in the first half. Canada's best chance came as a corner kick led to a scramble in the South African box, resulting in a header from Moise Bombito that was cleared off the line. Tajon Buchanan also had a close-range attempt that was saved by Williams. Canadian players' appeals for a penalty after Richie Laryea went down in the box were denied after a VAR review, prompting discontent among their fans, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

In the second half, frustrations mounted for Canada as South Africa appeared content to play for extra time. However, after several missed opportunities, Eustaquio’s late strike alleviated the tension, sending waves of celebration among the predominantly Canadian crowd. “We just kept believing, we kept pushing,” Eustaquio stated post-match, expressing gratitude to his teammates and supporters for their combined effort. “It was an amazing goal,” he added, referring to the culmination of their hard work and communication over the past two years, as echoed by coach Jesse Marsch in his remarks about sticking to the team's plan, according to Al Jazeera and Channel News Asia.

With this victory, Canada prepares to face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the quarter-finals on July 4. The achievement is particularly significant for the Canadian team, having advanced from the group stages for the first time in three World Cup appearances. Defender Alistair Johnston expressed the team's relief and excitement about continuing their World Cup journey, as they look ahead to what lies ahead, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.