Canada advances to World Cup round of 16 after 1‑0 penalty win over South Africa

Canada's men's soccer team won its first knockout‑stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating South Africa 1‑0 on penalties after a goalless 90 minutes and extra time in Inglewood, United States. The decisive spot‑kick was converted by Steven Eustace, giving Canada a narrow advantage in the shootout.

The victory moves Canada into the quarter‑finals, where it will face the winner of the Netherlands‑Morocco tie. This was the first meeting between the two sides in a World Cup knockout round; their only previous encounter was a friendly in 2007. Canada had previously finished second in Group B, drawing with Bosnia and Herzegovina, beating Qatar 6‑0 and losing to Switzerland 1‑2.

The win caps a strong opening for the expanded 48‑team tournament, which is being co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.