Canada secured a dramatic stoppage-time victory to reach the last 16, as a series of gripping World Cup matches saw Croatia, DR Congo and Argentina also progress.
The knockout stages of the World Cup are beginning to deliver drama, late goals and standout individual performances, with Canada, Croatia and DR Congo all booking progress in a thrilling set of matches, while Argentina underlined their title credentials.
Canada left it until stoppage time to secure victory, with Stephen Eustaquio firing home in the 92nd minute to edge South Africa and send the North Americans into the last 16.
After dominating possession and chances throughout, Canada were finally rewarded when a defensive error fell to Eustaquio, who struck decisively from outside the box.
The Canadians had earlier created several opportunities, with South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams producing key saves to keep his side in the game. Alphonso Davies also returned from injury late on, providing a boost ahead of their next clash.
Canada now advances to face either Morocco or the Netherlands in Houston, with growing confidence after a dominant display.
Croatia showed their experience to secure a 2-1 win over Ghana and reach the knockout rounds, with veteran Luka Modric at the heart of proceedings.
The 40-year-old midfielder became the oldest player to provide a World Cup assist, setting up Nikola Vlasic’s decisive goal from a corner.
Coach Zlatko Dalic hailed his side’s tactical discipline, insisting they are “back to where we were” after early doubts in the tournament. Croatia will now face Portugal in what promises to be a high-quality encounter.
DR Congo produced one of the standout performances of the tournament, coming from behind to beat Uzbekistan 3-1 and claim their first World Cup victory.
After falling behind early to Eldor Shomurodov’s goal, the Congolese turned the game around in the second half. Yoane Wissa converted a penalty before substitute Fiston Mayele put them ahead, with Wissa adding a second late on to seal the win.
The result sends DR Congo through to face England, while Uzbekistan bow out after a difficult debut campaign despite moments of promise.
Argentina underlined their strength in depth with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Jordan, despite making nine changes to their starting line-up.
Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a stunning free-kick, extending his remarkable run to seven consecutive World Cup matches with a goal.
Coach Lionel Scaloni praised the squad’s depth and rotation, emphasising the importance of keeping all players match-ready as Argentina head into the knockout rounds as group winners.
One of the most dramatic matches of the tournament saw Austria and Algeria draw 3-3 in a game filled with late twists.
Riyad Mahrez thought he had won it for Algeria in stoppage time, only for Austria to equalise moments later, ensuring both sides progressed. It was a pulsating encounter that underlined the unpredictability of the expanded format.
Colombia topped their group despite being held goalless by Portugal, with coach Nestor Lorenzo expressing pride in his side’s dominance but frustration at missed chances.
The draw was enough to secure first place, setting up a knockout clash with Ghana, although Colombia know greater efficiency will be needed in the later stages.
With late winners, historic firsts and standout individual performances, the World Cup is entering its decisive phase.
As knockout ties begin, momentum, squad depth and composure under pressure are already proving decisive and with plenty more drama expected, the stage is set for a compelling race to the final.
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