Canada head coach Jesse Marsch paid an emotional tribute to his players after their progression into the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
While co-hosts Canada did not win their group and duly missed out on the luxury of continuing to play in their home country, that did not matter on Sunday.
They left it late but Marsch’s team beat South Africa in Los Angeles, with Stephen Eustaquio scoring a late winner to ensure a historic win for the country.
CANADA SNATCH IT AT THE DEATH TO ADVANCE TO THE ROUND OF 16! How far do you think they can go from here?
This is their first ever knockout match victory!
Canada had never won a World Cup game before this year’s tournament but they will now play in the last 16 against either the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston.
It was a proud moment for the Canadian soccer team and Marsch was full of praise for his players after the game.
Marsch hails Canada players for inspiring next generation
The former Leeds coach believes such a historic victory will help soccer grow in Canada, inspiring children in the country to take up the sport.
Collecting his group for a post-match huddle, Marsch said: “Think about the two years we’ve been together.
“Think about how we talked about sticking to the plan, sticking to who we want to be.
“Playing aggressive, accessing your qualities. You guys showing your character. You guys are Canadian heroes. Canadian heroes. Canadian heroes for the future children of this country who play this sport.
“This sport has a big future because of you guys. You should be so proud of who you are. You should be so proud of this game, you never lost the heat.
“You went after it point after point, moment after moment. You are Canadian heroes.”
While not to rain on their parade, Canada will be underdogs heading into the last 16 no matter who they play.
Morocco became the first African team to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup back in 2022 and were awarded this year’s Africa Cup of Nations title in controversial circumstances.
The Netherlands, meanwhile, are one of the traditional powerhouses of world football. Though they are perhaps no longer the force of old, they have impressed during their World Cup campaign thus far.
Still, none of that is to take away from the fine job the Canadian players have done during the tournament.
A lot of attention has been paid to co-hosts America and Mexico thus far but Canada’s progress is a genuine success story.
Read more:
Erling Haaland gives Travis Scott special Norway World Cup gift
Teams eliminated during World Cup Group Stage by continent: UEFA sees 3 exits, CAF just one
Canada vs South Africa World Cup ticket prices crashed over 75% before kickoff
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
