Canada to face South Africa in World Cup 2026 group stage match

South Africa and Canada to Face Off in World Cup 2026 Round of 32

The FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 32 will feature a matchup between South Africa and Canada on Sunday, June 28, at the Los Angeles Stadium in Los Angeles. The two teams have not previously reached the knockout stages of a World Cup.

South Africa played in the opening game of the tournament, losing to co-hosts Mexico 2-0. They then drew 1-1 against Czechia and secured a win over South Korea to advance to the knockout stage. Canada was the second team to play in the tournament, drawing 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina. They also defeated Qatar 6-0, with Jonathan David scoring a hat-trick.

South Africa has not won a game in their last five matches, while Canada has lost only once in their last 11 games. According to Opta’s supercomputer, there is a 66% chance of Canada reaching the last 16, while South Africa’s chances are much lower.

The two teams have met previously only once, with South Africa winning 2-0 in a friendly match in 2007. Themba Zwane remains suspended following his red card in the opener against Mexico, but Teboho Mokoena could return from a one-game suspension to replace Yaya Sithole in midfield.

The winner of this matchup will face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the next round.

Source: Al Jazeera