Sports Correspondent – South Africa’s World Cup run came to an abrupt end after a late Canadian strike knocked Hugo Broos’ team out of the tournament in the Round of 32.

Rapper Casper Nyovest did not hold back after the final whistle.
“I cannot take this. This is heartbreaking,” he posted on Facebook just after Stephen Eustáquio’s 90th-minute goal sealed a 1-0 win for Canada.

It was a bitter finish for a side that had already made history by getting past the group stage for the first time in two decades. South Africa opened with a 2-0 loss to Mexico, steadied themselves with a 1-1 result against Czechia, and then beat South Korea 1-0 to take second spot in Group A.

Broos’ squad also had to do without Themba Zwane for the knockout match. FIFA rejected South Africa’s bid to overturn the midfielder’s three-game ban, meaning the team lost one of its most seasoned and inventive players right when they needed him most.

Even with the late exit, Bafana walk away with pride after what many are calling one of their strongest World Cup showings. The campaign has left fans believing better days are ahead, even though Canada’s last-gasp goal cut the dream short.

Centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi was another bright spot. His calm, steady displays in defence drew compliments across the tournament.