Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 28th June 2026, 10:24 PM
Canada and South Africa will both chase another landmark achievement when they meet in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with each nation aiming to extend a historic campaign that has already surpassed expectations.
South Africa reached the knockout stage of a World Cup for the first time after finishing ahead of the Czech Republic and South Korea in Group J. Canada, meanwhile, have also secured a place in the Round of 32 while co-hosting the tournament, marking another significant milestone in their World Cup journey.
The fixture carries added significance for both sides, as neither has previously advanced beyond this stage of the competition. Victory would move one of them a step closer to an unprecedented World Cup run.
Although Canada are one of the tournament’s three host nations, they are the only co-host required to play their first knockout match outside their own country. While the United States will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in San Francisco and Mexico will take on Ecuador at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Jesse Marsch’s side must travel to SoFi Stadium in California to face South Africa.
Canada’s players have insisted that playing away from home does not concern them. Forward Tani Oluwaseyi said the team relishes performing in front of opposing supporters, believing such an atmosphere provides additional motivation.
“We enjoy playing in stadiums filled with opposition supporters because it gives us extra motivation to prove ourselves,” he said.
Canada have received encouraging news ahead of the match regarding captain Alphonso Davies. The defender has missed all three group-stage matches because of a hamstring injury, but head coach Jesse Marsch believes he will be available for the knockout fixture.
Marsch described Davies’ return as a major boost in every respect.
“Having Davies back is important both physically and from a football perspective,” he said. “It will also have a significant psychological impact. Getting our captain and best player back will give the entire squad greater confidence.”
Canada’s injury concerns have not disappeared entirely. Midfielder Ismaël Koné has been ruled out after suffering a broken leg, while the availability of Stephen Eustáquio remains uncertain. There is better news for the Canadians, however, with Moïse Bombito expected to return to the squad.
Both teams progressed from the group stage with identical records of one win, one draw and one defeat. South Africa secured qualification in dramatic fashion by defeating South Korea 1-0 in their final group match, a result that earned them a place among the last 32.
The African side will also receive an important boost with the return of Teboho Mokoena, who is available again after serving a suspension. However, they will be without Themba Zwane, who remains suspended for one more match following the red card he received against Mexico.
The winner of the tie will advance to face either Morocco or the Netherlands in the next round. That match is scheduled to be played in Houston on 4 July.
South Africa (4-2-3-1): Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mbatha, Mokoena; Maseko, Mofokeng, Appollis; Makgopa.
Canada (4-4-2): Crépeau; Johnston, De Fougerolles, Cornelius, Laryea; Buchanan, Saliba, Choinière, Ahmed; David, Larin.
With both teams having already broken new ground during the tournament, the Round of 32 encounter promises to be one of the most intriguing knockout fixtures. Canada will hope that the possible return of Davies provides the lift needed to continue their campaign, while South Africa will look to build on the momentum gained from their decisive victory over South Korea. For whichever side emerges victorious, another piece of World Cup history awaits.
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