South Africa defeated 1 goal to 0 by canada. The Bafana Bafana, as South Africa’s national team is affectionately known, fell short of their World Cup ambitions following a 1-0 loss to the Canadian side. The match, which took place at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, proved to be a decisive moment in the qualification campaign for the 2026 tournament.
Canada’s Alistair Johnston jumps over South Africa’s Oswin Appollis during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match in Inglewood, Calif., near Los Angeles, Sunday, June 28, 2026.
The single-goal defeat has dashed South Africa’s hopes of competing in the upcoming World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This represents a significant disappointment for South African football, as the team had been working to secure their place in what will be an expanded 48-team tournament.
Co-hosts Canada have made it to the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup. Stephen Eustaquio was Canada’s hero as he broke the deadlock in injury time with a fine low shot from outside the box.
Canada had dominated their round of 32 match but it appeared destined for extra time, with South Africa defending heroically.
They could not keep out Eustaquio’s strike, however, and Canada will now take on either the Netherlands or Morocco on Saturday in Houston.
