Canadas underdog team wins World Cup in dramatic last-minute comeback

June 29, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Canadas underdog team wins World Cup in dramatic last-minute comeback

Canada Advances to FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with Historic Win

Canada’s men’s football team has secured a historic spot in the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating South Africa in their final group stage match. The team, led by midfielder Stephen Eustaquio, scored a goal in the 92nd minute to secure the win.

Prime Minister Mark Carney and other high-profile figures congratulated the team on social media, praising their performance. “What a game. What a team. What a country,” Carney wrote. Premier Doug Ford of Ontario also offered congratulations, noting that Eustaquio was born and raised in the province before moving to Portugal.

The team’s victory has been met with widespread enthusiasm from fans across Canada and around the world. Social media was flooded with footage of watch parties and fan festivals, as well as messages of support from fellow Canadian athletes, including Olympic champions Summer McIntosh and Andre de Grasse.

FC Bayern Munich congratulated Alphonso Davies on his return to international duty after a hamstring injury. The team’s performance was notable for its shift in pace and tactic when Davies came on as a substitute.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also offered congratulations to Canada, acknowledging the team’s hard work despite facing stiff competition. Meanwhile, former German footballer Bastian Schweinsteiger expressed his support for the team, although he noted that they would need to improve significantly in their next matches.

Source: Al Jazeera