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Canada celebrates first World Cup knockout victory against South Africa

Canada has won a World Cup knockout match for the first time in its history, beating South Africa 1-0. The round of 32 game in Los Angeles was decided by Stephen Eustáquio in stoppage time.

Canada celebrates first World Cup knockout victory against South Africa
Photo: sueddeutsche.de

The winning goal came in stoppage time of the first half: Stephen Eustáquio volleyed home a short headed clearance, firing into the heart of the goal. Los Angeles FC midfielder was emotionally overwhelmed after the final whistle. “Every Canadian will know where they were for the rest of their lives,” Alistair Johnston said of the historic achievement.

It is Canada’s first win in a knockout round at a men’s World Cup. The team advanced as group runners-up, having lost to Switzerland in the group stage. Canada will now face the winner of the Netherlands vs. Morocco match in the round of 16 on July 4 in Houston.

Alongside goalscorer Eustáquio, Alphonso Davies also celebrated a personal comeback: the Bayern Munich winger had torn his cruciate ligament in the same stadium in Los Angeles 15 months ago. Subbed on in the 75th minute, he caused havoc and was one of the first to congratulate Eustáquio on the winner. “We are all brothers,” Eustáquio said of the team spirit. Coach Marsch left it open whether Davies could start in the round of 16.

Source: www.sueddeutsche.de