Canada progressed to the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals with a 1–0 victory over South Africa in a knockout tie that exposed the hosts' defensive vulnerabilities. Despite dominating possession at 58 per cent, South Africa created minimal threat, registering just 0.14 xG from six shots with only one on target; their goalkeeper faced seven shots on target but could only save one, conceding 1.67 xG. Canada, operating in a 4–4–2 shape, proved far more clinical, generating 1.38 xG from 12 attempts and seven shots on target, with their goalkeeper delivering a flawless performance by stopping the sole South African effort directed his way. The visitors' ruthless finishing from limited opportunities—a stark contrast to the hosts' profligacy—secured passage despite controlling less than half the ball. South Africa's inability to convert territorial advantage into clear-cut chances proved decisive in a knockout environment where precision matters most.