2026 World Cup: Two African Countries Eliminated from Tournament

South Africa has become the second African country to be eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a dramatic 1-0 defeat to co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32 on Sunday.

Bafana Bafana saw their historic World Cup campaign come to a heartbreaking end after Stephen Eustaquio scored the decisive goal in the first minute of stoppage time to send Canada into the Round of 16.

The result ended South Africa’s impressive run in the tournament and saw them join Tunisia as the only two African nations eliminated so far.

Tunisia exited the competition during the group stage after failing to secure qualification for the knockout rounds.

South Africa entered the match against Canada hoping to continue their remarkable journey after making history by reaching the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time.

Hugo Broos’ side produced a disciplined defensive performance throughout the contest, frustrating the Canadian attack for the entire regulation period.

Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made several crucial saves to keep his side in the game, while defenders Aubrey Modiba and Mbekezeli Mbokazi delivered outstanding performances at the back.

However, South Africa’s resistance was finally broken deep into added time when Eustaquio capitalised on a loose ball outside the penalty area and fired a low shot into the bottom corner.

The late strike handed Canada a famous victory and denied South Africa the opportunity to force extra time.

Despite the defeat, South Africa leaves the tournament with several notable achievements, including becoming the first Bafana Bafana team to progress beyond the group stage at a FIFA World Cup.

The expanded 48-team format introduced at the 2026 tournament also enabled a record number of African nations to advance to the knockout rounds.

South Africa was among nine African countries that successfully qualified for the Round of 32, highlighting the continent’s improved performance on the global stage.

Several African representatives remain in contention for the title as the knockout phase continues, keeping alive hopes of another historic achievement for the continent.

While South Africa’s journey has ended, the team’s performances throughout the tournament earned widespread praise for their resilience, organisation and determination against higher-ranked opponents.

Attention will now shift to the remaining African teams still competing as they attempt to advance further in the tournament and keep the continent’s hopes alive.