Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; June 29: Co-hosts Canada booked their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa, ending the African side’s hopes of progressing in the tournament.

The first knockout-stage match, played in Los Angeles on Sunday, remained fiercely contested throughout as both teams battled for a place in the next round. While Canada created more opportunities and looked the more threatening side, South Africa relied on disciplined defending and quick counter-attacks to keep themselves in the contest.

South Africa spent much of the match focusing on maintaining possession whenever possible and attempting to catch Canada on the break. Their defensive unit remained well-organised, while goalkeeper Ronwen Williams once again displayed why he is regarded as one of the most dependable shot-stoppers in international football. With their resilient defending, South Africa appeared determined to push the game into extra time and possibly a penalty shootout.

Their hopes were shattered in the dying moments of stoppage time. Antun Justak emerged as Canada's hero by scoring the decisive goal in the second minute of added time, sending the home supporters into wild celebrations. The dramatic strike not only secured Canada's place in the Round of 16 but also marked Justak's first-ever goal in a FIFA World Cup. The Major League Soccer player could not have chosen a more important occasion to open his World Cup account.

Canada dominated much of the attacking play throughout the match under the guidance of head coach Jesse Marsch. They registered 12 shots in total, with seven of them testing the South African goalkeeper. Despite creating several chances earlier in the game, Canada had to wait until the final moments before finding the breakthrough that ultimately decided the contest.

South Africa struggled to create meaningful opportunities in front of goal. They managed only six attempts during the entire match, with just one shot on target, reflecting Canada's solid defensive display. Although the African side fought bravely and defended resolutely for almost the entire match, they were unable to withstand Canada's relentless pressure in the closing moments.

The victory sends Canada into the last 16 of the World Cup, keeping alive the dreams of the tournament's co-host nation. For South Africa, meanwhile, the heartbreaking defeat brings their World Cup campaign to an end despite an impressive defensive effort for most of the match. The dramatic late winner ensured that Canada advanced to the next stage, while South Africa were left to rue a missed opportunity after coming so close to forcing extra time.