The knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on Sunday as co-hosts Canada take on South Africa in a crucial Round of 32 encounter at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
The match, scheduled for 8 p.m. Nigeria time, is the only fixture on Day 18 of the tournament, with both sides battling to keep their World Cup dreams alive in the winner-takes-all contest.
Canada enter the tie as the only one of the three tournament co-hosts required to play their first knockout match outside their home nation.
While the United States and Mexico benefit from home support, Jesse Marsch’s side will have to navigate a neutral venue in California.
Rather than viewing the situation as a disadvantage, the Canadians have embraced the challenge.
Forward Tani Oluwaseyi said playing before crowds that may favour the opposition serves as added motivation for the team.
A major boost for Les Rouges is the return of captain Alphonso Davies. The Bayern Munich star sat out all three group-stage matches because of a hamstring injury, but Marsch has confirmed the defender is fit and available for selection. His comeback is expected to strengthen Canada both on and off the field.
Canada will, however, be without Ismaël Koné, who is sidelined with a broken leg, while Stephen Eustáquio remains a doubt. Defender Moïse Bombito is available for the clash.
Both teams advanced from the group stage with identical records of one win, one draw and one defeat. South Africa booked their place in the Round of 32 after edging South Korea 1-0 in a tense final group match.
Bafana Bafana will be boosted by the return of Teboho Mokoena, who has completed a suspension following his red card.
However, experienced midfielder Themba Zwane remains unavailable as he serves the final game of his ban stemming from his dismissal against Mexico.
The winner of Sunday’s contest will progress to the Round of 16 in Houston on July 4, where either Morocco or the Netherlands await.
