South Africa will take on Canada in the opening Round of 32 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday, with both teams chasing a place in the last 16 after making history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time.
Canada qualified despite finishing second in Group B after a defeat to Switzerland, having earlier recorded their first-ever World Cup point and victory.
South Africa also achieved a historic milestone by advancing beyond the group stage for the first time in four World Cup appearances. Bafana Bafana secured qualification with a 1-0 win over South Korea, thanks to Thapelo Maseko’s decisive goal.
Team News
South Africa receive a major boost with the return of midfielder Teboho Mokoena from suspension. However, playmaker Themba Zwane remains unavailable after the team’s appeal against his three-match suspension was rejected. Coach Hugo Broos is expected to retain his 4-2-3-1 formation, with Evidence Makgopa leading the attack and captain Ronwen Williams in goal.
Canada head into the clash with injury concerns. Midfielder Ismaël Koné has been ruled out of the tournament with a fractured leg, while captain Alphonso Davies remains doubtful after missing the group stage with a hamstring injury. Stephen Eustáquio also faces a late fitness test. Despite the setbacks, coach Jesse Marsch is expected to stick with his attacking 4-4-2 formation, spearheaded by Jonathan David and Cyle Larin