29/06/2026 06:12 - Deportes
Canada wrote a golden page in its soccer history by qualifying for the Round of 16 of a World Cup for the first time ever. Stephen Eustáquio's goal in stoppage time against South Africa sparked euphoria at the Los Angeles Stadium and marked a milestone that will be remembered forever.
Stephen Eustáquio's story seems straight out of a movie script. Born in Ontario, Canada, to Portuguese parents, he could have worn the jersey of the Portuguese national team. In fact, he played for Portugal's U-21 team alongside stars like João Felix and the late Diogo Jota, who passed away in 2025.
"I'm here because I met a fantastic person. He respected my timing, my decisions, and never pressured me", Eustáquio said about John Herdman, the former coach who convinced him to play for Canada.
His journey wasn't easy. In 2019, Argentine club Boca Juniors purchased Iván Marcone, and Mexican club Cruz Azul sought Eustáquio as his replacement. However, his debut lasted only 15 minutes: he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. An injury that would have ended many careers, but not his.
Currently, Eustáquio shines at Los Angeles FC, where he has faced Lionel Messi's Inter Miami. His goal against South Africa came at the most dramatic moment, when the match seemed destined for a draw.
Name: Stephen Eustáquio
Birthplace: Ontario, Canada
Heritage: Portuguese parents from Nazaré
Current Club: Los Angeles FC
Position: Central Midfielder
Achievement: Historic goal for Canada
Since childhood, Eustáquio was known as a "game detective". Obsessed with soccer, by age 14 he was already using a notebook to record areas for improvement after each training session. His brother Mauro shared: "My father always said that to grow in soccer we had to study the game, and the day we didn't do it was a day of development we lost".
This mindset led him to be considered "a coach on the field", according to Jesse Marsch, Canada's current head coach. The American manager knew how to value his ability to control the tempo of the match.
Canada is already in the Round of 16 and awaits the winner of the Netherlands vs Morocco match, which will be played on July 4, 2026 in Houston.
The North American side proved to be a fast, physical, and athletic team with a clear playing identity that has captivated its fans. "We have nothing to lose, we're going out to win next week", an inspired Eustáquio said after the victory.
While Canada celebrated its historic victory, shocking news emerged from the tournament. A shooting at a World Cup fan zone in California left one person dead and another seriously injured.
The incident occurred at San Pedro Square, an area where fans gather to watch matches. According to authorities, no match was being broadcast at the time of the incident. Police are investigating the case as a homicide.
Source: Europa Press / El País
The five-time world champion Brazil faces Japan in one of the most anticipated Round of 16 matches. Under manager Carlo Ancelotti, the Canarinha will aim to demonstrate their title credentials.
Kickoff: 7:00 PM (local time) - Broadcast: Various networks
The four-time world champion Germany takes on Paraguay, who arrive hungry to make history. Although the South Americans didn't start the tournament well, they face an incredible opportunity.
Kickoff: 10:30 PM (local time) - Broadcast: Various networks
Sources: TYC Sports | El País
Alfredo S. Quiroga
