The last time South Africa and Canada reached the knockout stage was never in their history. This time, a resilient Bafana Bafana, making their first FIFA World Cup last-32 appearance, return to action at the SoFi Stadium to face a Canada side preparing for their own historic breakthrough.
It's a FIFA World Cup knockout action on Sunday, June 28, as South Africa travels to California to face a Canada side that is playing its first match outside its borders. Bafana Bafana boss Hugo Broos will be aiming to refocus his team after recent group stage battles.
Team Form
South Africa: Reached the last-32 stage of a World Cup for the first time in history.
Canada: Progressed to the tournament knockout round for the first time despite a final group defeat.
Key Stats & Head-to-Head
The last meeting between South Africa and Canada was in November 2007, and it ended in a 2-0 win for Bafana Bafana.
Canada dropped only five points from a possible nine during their successful group stage campaign.
South Africa has failed to keep a clean sheet in two of their matches, suffering a 2-0 defeat and a 1-1 draw.
Canada's attack was clinical in the group stage, netting eight goals total for the North American side.
This match serves as a crucial knockout clash for both nations during the summer global showpiece.
What to Expect From Both Teams
South Africa | Form: LDDLDW:
Hugo Broos' side enters this clash with immense confidence, looking to preserve a historic momentum in front of their traveling fans.
With a squad featuring seasoned veterans like Teboho Mokoena and clinical finishers like Evidence Makgopa, they provide a stern test for any opposing nation.
Having been placed in a path that could lead to Netherlands or Morocco, this fixture against North American opposition is a strategic move to master the required knockout style.
Canada | Form: DWDDWL:
Jesse Marsch's men are looking to snap a recent dip where they failed to secure the top spot in Group B against Switzerland.
Despite the absence of the injured Ismael Kone and potentially Stephen Eustaquio, the co-hosts still boast experienced heads like Jonathan David and Cyle Larin.
With potential round of 16 matches against Netherlands or Morocco looming, finding their rhythm in the United States this month is a top priority for the technical bench.
Predicted Lineups
South Africa (possible):
Williams, Mudau, Mbokazi, Okon, Modiba, Mbatha, Mokoena, Maseko, Mofokeng, Appollis, Makgopa.
Canada (possible):
Crepeau, Johnston, De Fougerolles, Cornelius, Laryea, Buchanan, Eustaquio, Saliba, Ahmed, David, Larin.
Matchups & Players to Watch
Teboho Mokoena: The returning midfielder could make a massive impact for South Africa after serving a one-game suspension.
Tajon Buchanan: A vital cog in the Canadian frontline who will be tasked with disrupting South Africa's defensive stars.
Alphonso Davies: Arrives with high anticipation, recovering from a hamstring injury, posing a constant threat if introduced off the bench.
Evidence Makgopa: The South African forward will be expected to lead the line and secure a historic spot in the round of 16.
Odds Market on MSport
South Africa/Home to win = 5.46
Canada/Away to win = 1.75
Both teams to score (GG/NG Yes) = 2.11
Over 2.5 total goals = 2.27
This clash presents a classic clash of momentum: a historic African side in South Africa faces a Canadian team desperate to rediscover their winning touch after a group stage defeat.
With both teams using this as a vital dress rehearsal for the round of 16, SoFi Stadium is set for a compelling international night.
