How Canada planned to stop Bafana Bafana threats in FIFA World Cup clash

The tournament co-hosts booked their place in the last 16 with a narrow 1-0 victory over South Africa, bringing an end to Bafana's memorable campaign on the global stage.

Rather than pressing aggressively throughout the match, Marsch said Canada deliberately focused on maintaining structure and limiting space in areas where South Africa's creative players could hurt them.

"We knew... Mokoena, Appollis and all their attacking talents, we knew if they had too much space, they can make [use of it]," said Marsch.

"That's why we didn't chase the goalkeeper that much even when he was standing on the ball, trying to slow things down.

"The last thing we wanted to do was to get a stretched game and give their talented players room and space to be getting on the ball and creating combinations."

Although South Africa still managed to show moments of attacking quality, Marsch felt his side remained disciplined enough to reduce the danger.

"They were still able to do that at certain moments but I think we limited South Africa from being too dangerous and creating big chances.

"That's an accomplishment on the day because they're still an explosive team. I think our structure, discipline and our commitment to make the game hard on them is what made us win the match."

Canada's tactical approach ultimately paid off as they advanced to the Round of 16 while Bafana exited the tournament with credit after making history by reaching the knockout stage.