Hosts Canada advance through to Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Bafana Bafana becomes first team to be eliminated at the FIFA world Cup round of 32
LOS ANGELES — After advancing to the round of 32 from the group stage, South Africa fell with a disappointing loss to Canada at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, suffering a 1-0 defeat in the dying minutes of the match. This result made them the first team to be eliminated in the round of 32.
Being among the hosts of the tournament, Canada had never made it through to the round of 16 before. This has been their best performance yet. They have also managed to accomplish some other great achievements in the tournament.
Stephen Estaquio leading the team to celebrate after scoring against South Africa in their round of 32 match in Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood. on June 28, 2026 at 5:22 PM. Photo: Andre/Penner
With a spot already guaranteed in the last 16, Canada has been able to achieve a milestone in their country’s football history, and the players, too. They earned their first-ever World Cup point in their match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. This was also sealed off with their first-ever win at the tournament, a 6-0 thrashing of Qatar at BC Place in Vancouver. With this win also came a Jonathan David hat trick, making it the first for a host nation since 1966 and the largest margin by a CONCACAF team in World Cup history.
In their round of 32 encounter with South Africa, Canada managed to put on a magnificent defensive display for a whole 90 minutes. In the 92nd minute of the match, luck was on their side as Stephen Eustaquio gave the host the lead with a spectacular goal to seal a spot in the last 16. Canada will face Morocco in their round of 16 match on the 4th of July in Houston.
“I'm supporting Canada all through to the finals, and I'm ready to win it," said John Brown.”
Hosting the tournament has given Canada some belief to better their previous results in the tournament. With history to be made and a hosting advantage, an advancement to the last 16 is on the horizon for the host nation.