Jesse Marsch hails Canada’s ‘heroes’ after historic World Cup knockout breakthrough

• Jesse Marsch praised his players as “Canadian heroes” after Canada’s first-ever World Cup knockout victory.
• Stephen Eustáquio’s stoppage-time winner secured a 1-0 win over South Africa and a place in the round of 16.
• Canada will now face either the Netherlands or Morocco as they continue their historic tournament run.

Jesse Marsch hailed his players as “Canadian heroes” after Stephen Eustáquio’s stoppage-time winner secured Canada’s first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout victory with a dramatic 1-0 win over South Africa on Sunday.

Eustáquio struck in the second minute of added time to send Canada into the round of 16 for the first time in the nation’s history, extending an unforgettable tournament that has already captured the imagination of Canadian football supporters.

Television cameras caught Marsch addressing his squad on the pitch immediately after the final whistle, telling his players they had helped shape the future of football in Canada.

Speaking afterwards, the head coach explained why he felt it was important to deliver that message in the moment.

“People like to say it’s performative to meet on the pitch after the game, and I don’t give a s—. And frankly, I don’t care,” Marsch told reporters.

“In these moments after games, people get pulled in a lot of directions, so you have to take the moment right there.

“I wanted to voice to them how important a moment like this will be for the sport and the national team. It’s a shame we couldn’t do it in Vancouver, but it’s a pleasure to be their coach, and it’s something that motivates me every day.”

Canada had hoped to play their first knockout match on home soil but finished second in Group B following a 2-1 defeat to Switzerland, sending them to Southern California instead.

Despite the change in venue, more than 69,000 supporters at SoFi Stadium created an atmosphere that felt close to home, with thousands of Canadian fans making the trip to witness a landmark victory.

Marsch said his players quickly adjusted after missing out on hosting the match in Vancouver.

“We are used to playing in the States with Copa Americas, and the Gold Cup and friendlies,” he said.

“We were disappointed not to play at home, but the guys quickly refocused and stayed focused and concentrated on the opponent, and it took 92 minutes to do it, but we did it.

“Our goal in tournament, other than inspiring our nation, was to make a run to face one of the giants of the soccer world. And given Morocco’s recent run, they are a giant. And given the Dutch’s dominance over the decades, they are a giant, too.

“I feel like this next game is a free hit, and we are going to go out and give it our best shot.”

Eustáquio, whose late strike sparked emotional celebrations among players and supporters, said Canada’s unity has been the driving force behind their success.

“We worked for it,” he said.

“We have a special group. We feel like we are brothers. When we fight for each other, when we play for each other, special things like this can happen. I am over the moon, but at the same time I don’t want to say that the job is finished.

“We never stopped believing. And I think the goal is really something that we deserved.”

Marsch has repeatedly spoken about his admiration for Canada since taking charge of the national team in May 2024 and said Sunday’s achievement reflected the values he sees in the country.

“The ideals and character of the Canadian people fit me very well,” Marsch said.

“It’s a country that is kind and caring to outsiders. It’s a country that appreciates the things you do more than the things you say.

“Americans get a rap for being boisterous and outwardly vocal, but again, I don’t give a s—. All I care about is working with the players and trying to get the best out of people and this group.”

Canada will now face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the round of 16 as they continue the deepest World Cup run in the nation’s history.

Marsch was also asked about Bosnia-Herzegovina, who will meet the United States in the round of 32 after drawing 1-1 with Canada during the group stage.

The former United States coaching candidate offered little insight.

“It’s up to the U.S. to figure out, and it’s up to the players on their team,” Marsch said.

“Whoever Bosnia plays, they will give a really hard match.”