Alistair Johnston helped Canada make history on Sunday night, with the Canucks reaching the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in the nation's history.
Canada required a stoppage time winner from Stephen Eustaquio to see off a tough-to-break-down South Africa side, who put in the yards to frustrate one of the host nations. But while they were not at their best, Jesse Marsch's men were the better side, and they get their reward by progressing to the next stage, where they will face either the Netherlands or Morocco.
It is the first time Canada have reached the Round of 16, and it is extra-impressive given this World Cup has an additional knockout round, and the Canucks did finish second in their group, so they didn't need the extra third place spots.
Johnston plays a key role
Celtic defender Alistair Johnston played a key role in Los Angeles, with Canada playing outside of their home country due to finishing second in the group.
Johnston missed a huge chunk of the club season through injury, but he is now very much back to full fitness, and he played 90 minutes in LA.
Canadian sports outlet SportsNet rated the players from the game, and they gave Johnston an 8/10, reasoning: "Back to his usual self against South Africa, Johnston was one of Jesse Marsch’s best players on this day. With eight passes into the final third, the Vaughan Azzurri product gave his opposite number Aubrey Modiba and company all they could handle."
Marsch rallies the troops
After the win, Canada boss Marsch rounded up his players and delivering a rousing speech to his men, which the cameras jumped in on.
"This sport has a big future because of you guys," Marsch said to his players.
After the game, he added in an interview with reporters: "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. 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 have arguably already succeeded at this tournament, but they will be eyeing more history in Houston on July 4, when they face Netherlands and Morocco, who play on Monday night.
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