Canada entered Sunday's Round of 32 match as a favorite against South Africa. The game appeared destined for a scoreless draw until the 92nd minute.
A cross into the box deflected to Canadian midfielder Stephen Eustáquio. He controlled the ball and fired a shot into the lower-left corner, beating South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
The goal secured Canada's first-ever knockout-stage victory at a World Cup. The team, a co-host of the 2026 tournament, played all its group matches at home but faced South Africa in Los Angeles.
Canada next faces the winner of Netherlands vs. Morocco in Houston. Meanwhile, the United States, another co-host, will play Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara, California, on Wednesday.