South Africa and Canada clash in historic World Cup round of 32 match
Canada and South Africa meet at SoFi Stadium in the first round of 32 match in World Cup history. The winner advances to face the Netherlands or Morocco.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches a historic milestone today, Sunday, June 28, 2026, as the tournament introduces a round of 32 for the first time in its 96-year history. Co-hosts Canada face South Africa at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, marking a significant encounter between two nations competing in the men's knockout stage for the first time.
Canada, participating in their third World Cup, secured their place as runners-up in Group B. Their campaign opened with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, followed by a 6-0 victory over Qatar—a match in which Jonathan David scored a hat-trick. However, a 2-1 defeat to Switzerland in their final group fixture cost them the opportunity to remain on home soil in Vancouver, forcing the team to travel for the next stage.
Media additions
South Africa’s journey to this round has been characterized by recovery. After an initial 2-0 loss to Mexico, the team secured a 1-1 draw against Czech Republic. They clinched their historic spot in the knockout phase with a 1-0 victory over South Korea in Monterrey, thanks to a 63rd-minute Goal by Thapelo Maseko.
Regarding the emotional significance of the win, Broos noted, "It was an emotional moment. We came here to Mexico and we wanted to survive the group stage. And that, for me, was really a moment of emotions, not only because we won the game but also because as I’ve said in the past, it probably will be one of my last games of my career.""We played a very good game tactically. It was very good; everyone did their job. I’m very proud of the performance of my team."
Hugo Broos, coach, via The Athletic
Team News and Tactical Outlook
Canada approaches the fixture with notable personnel setbacks. Midfielder Ismael Kone was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament after sustaining a broken leg during the win over Qatar. Coach Jesse Marsch is also managing the fitness of Alfie Jones and Stephen Eustaquio. While Alphonso Davies missed the group stage due to a hamstring injury, his potential return remains a focal point for the team.
"I think Alphonso Davies will be ready to go next game."
Jesse Marsch, coach, via Fox Sports
South Africa will see the return of Teboho Mokoena, who missed the final group game due to a yellow card suspension. However, the team remains without Themba Zwane, who is serving a ban following a red card received in the tournament opener. According to reporting from Al Jazeera Sport, the side is expected to persist with a defensive structure that proved resilient against South Korea, where they managed to secure the win despite holding limited possession.
Historical Context and Looking Ahead
The two nations have met only once in recorded history, with South Africa securing a 2-0 victory in a friendly match played in 2007. Because both teams reached this stage for the first time, this match guarantees one nation a place in the round of 16, where they will face either the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on July 4.
The match is scheduled for a 12pm PT kick-off at SoFi Stadium. US viewers can follow the game on FOX and Telemundo, while Canadian coverage is available via TSN 1, 3, 4 and CTV.
