Day: June 28, 2026

Canada reach FIFA World Cup last 16 with last-gasp winner over South Africa in Los Angeles
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Canada book World Cup last-16 spot with last-gasp winner over South Africa in Los Angeles

Canada secured their place in the World Cup’s last 16 with a stunning last-gasp 1-0 victory over South Africa! Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic goal in stoppage time, giving Canada the victory they so desperately needed.

Both sides showed excellent talent and drive, making the game very close. Canada, however, always produced more scoring chances across the game.

Eustaquio rose to the occasion when the situation called for a standout moment, firing a strong shot that guaranteed the team’s victory just as the game was about to end.

This game was a historic event as neither Canada nor South Africa had ever made it to the tournament’s knockout rounds.

With this victory, Canada can now look forward to finishing their World Cup run against either Morocco or the Netherlands in the following round.

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe Hails Nine African Teams in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe Hails Nine African Teams in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32

Africa recored 90% of 100 from the World Cup 2026 group stage as nine of ten teams made the last 32 of the USA, Canada, and Mexico showcase

“The hard work and investments in youth football development, coaching, professional football leagues and football infrastructure in each of CAF’s 54 Member Associations and in the CAF Competitions are bearing fruit, Dr Motsepe vehemently noted.

“I want to congratulate the National Teams and coaching staff of Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and South Africa for qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Round of 32.

They have made their countries and the 1.6 billion people in Africa and in the Diaspora proud. The achievements of these nine teams show that African football is becoming more competitive and recognized worldwide.

The hard work put into developing youth football, coaching, professional leagues, and infrastructure in each of the 54 CAF Member Associations is paying off.

New governance and financial practices have attracted sponsors and partners, helping the growth of African football. I also congratulate the 9 CAF Member Association Presidents and their teams and thank the African Governments for their support of these Associations.

CAF wishes all nine teams the best as they compete in the FIFA World Cup 2026™, and we believe they will continue to make their countries and Africa proud.”

SLFA Announces New Domestic Football Season Calendar; League to Kick Off This October
by Ibrahim Sesay

SLFA Announces New Domestic Football Season Calendar; League to Kick Off This October

Important dates for the next football season have been formally revealed by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), therefore thrilling both supporters and players.

The SLFA has released a thorough schedule outlining the start of the next season as the present league draws to a close in the next two weeks.

Among the main features of the forthcoming football schedule are:

1. Starting Division One will feature both male and female leagues that highlight developing talent and create fierce competition.

2. The National Play-Offs, these eagerly awaited games will highlight male and female teams competing for domination and provide an exciting finish to the season.

3. This vital procedure will be necessary for male and female Premier League players to guarantee that all athletes are duly registered and qualified to play.

4. Club registration: Every male and female club has to finish their registration to be eligible for the next season.

These important dates should be noted by players, clubs, and stakeholders; they should plan appropriately.

The SLFA is excited to welcome another season of exciting football activity, sure to feature the best Sierra Leonean talent and provide supporters with close games.

Important dates for the next football season have been formally revealed by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), therefore thrilling both supporters and players. SLFA Announces Domestic Football Season Calendar for October Kick-Off
SLFA Announces Domestic Football Season Calendar for October Kick-Off
South Africa face co-host Canada after reaching the World Cup Round of 32 for the first time ever
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa face co-host Canada after reaching their first World Cup Round of 32

For the first time, South Africa has advanced to the knockout rounds of the World Cup. In their last three appearances, the Bafana Bafana were eliminated during the group stage.

Sixteen years ago, Siphiwe Tshabalala’s first goal against Mexico was hailed by a pundit as a goal for all of Africa. But it turned out to be a misplaced hope.

Though they tied Mexico 1-1 and defeated France in their final game, the team was ousted on goal difference. South Africa missed a fantastic chance as first World Cup host to not make it from the group stage.

South African football has suffered since the 2010 competition. Cape Town writer Mark Gleeson said that domestic football has been a little bit sluggish following 2010, particularly given the economic crisis. He pointed out that regional football lacks sponsors and readily available cash.

In these challenging times, South Africa returned to the World Cup this year after missing the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in 2012, 2017, and 2021. But their national team and local football are both exhibiting signs of growth.

Mamelodi Sundowns took home the African club championship in 2016 and, following second place last year, earned their second continental title in May.

Gleeson remarked that the country has greatly benefited from the national team’s World Cup qualification and Sundowns’ victory in the African Champions League. Perhaps 16 years after it should have been, he hopes this signals a new beginning for South African football.

Canada is the only co-host of the World Cup that will compete in a knockout round match outside of its own borders. While the United States will take on Bosnia and Herzegovina in San Francisco and Mexico will go up against a third-place team at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Jesse Marsch’s team must journey to California to play at SoFi Stadium.

South Africa vs. Canada

Sunday, June 28 | Inglewood, California | Los Angeles Stadium

  • Confederation: CAF

  • Best World Cup: Group stage (1998, 2002, 2010)

  • Last World Cup: 2010 (Group stage)

  • First World Cup: 1998 (Group stage)

  • World Cup appearances: 4 (1998, 2002, 2010, 2026)

  • Current run of successive qualifications: One

  • World Cup hosts: 2010 (Group stage)

  • Overall World Cup record: P9 W2 D4 L3 F11 A16