South Africa vs. Canada Player Ratings- Who Was the Man of the Match?
In the first knockout stage match of the 2026 World Cup, Canada defeated South Africa 1-0 with a late winner to advance to the Round of 16.
Canada makes history and reaches the Round of 16 of a World Cup for the first time. South Africa has been eliminated from the competition after four matches played in the competition.
Canada will play the winner of the Netherlands vs. Morocco in the Round of 16; the Netherlands vs. Morocco match will be played tomorrow.
Who Scored for Canada?
After a tight matchup for most of the match, the winner arrived in the 92nd minute through a goal from Canada midfielder Stephen Eustaquio.
After a clearance from a South African defender, Eustaquio controls the ball and shoots it into the bottom corner. Eustaquio was the man of the match after constantly creating chances for Canada, but the striker was unable to get past Ronwen Williams.
Player Ratings for South Africa and Canada (1-10)
These post-match player ratings from Athlon Sports are based on first-hand analysis while watching the match.
A one (1) is the worst possible score for a player who saw substantial minutes, while a 10 represents a stellar game-changing performance. A five (5) is average based on a player's role and expected contributions.
South Africa
- Ronwen Williams - 6
- Aubrey Maphosa Modiba - 7
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi - 7
- Ime Okon - 7
- Khuliso Mudau - 7
- Sphephelo Sithole - 7
- Teboho Mokoena - 7
- Relebohile Mofokeng - 6
- Oswin Appollis - 6
- Evidence Makgopa - 6
- Thapelo Maseko - 6
Subs: Thalente Mbatha (6), Iqraam Rayners (5), Tshepang Moremi (5)
Canada
- Maxime Crepeau - 6
- Richie Laryea - 6
- Derek Cornelius - 6
- Moise Bombito - 7
- Alistair Johnston - 6
- Liam Millar - 6
- Stephen Eustaquio - 8 (Man of the Match)
- Nathan Saliba - 7
- Tajon Buchanan - 7
- Jonathan David - 5
- Tani Oluwaseyi - 6
Subs: Luc De Fougerolles (7), Niko Sigur (6), Jacob Shaffelburg (6), Promise David (6), Alphonso Davies (6)
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This story was originally published June 28, 2026 at 5:00 PM.