South Africa 0-1 Canada summary: score, goals, highlights | World Cup 2026 round of 32

Thanks for following and goodbye!

We'll leave it all there for now. Canada are the first team through to the las 16, but who will join them? Make sure you're across AS USA for all the latest World Cup news, and we'll have two live games for you to follow tomorrow:

Brazil vs Japan, 1pm ET

Germany vs Paraguay, 4:30pm ET

Bye for now. 

Round of 32 kicks off: games, dates, times

Here's a lightly updated look at the World Cup's first ever round of 32.

The last 32 runs through July 3, with games spread across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

June 28

South Africa 0-1 Canada - SoFi Stadium (Inglewood)

June 29

Germany vs. Paraguay - Gillette Stadium (Foxborough)

Netherlands vs. Morocco - Estadio Monterrey (Monterrey)

Brazil vs. Japan - NRG Stadium (Houston)

June 30

Ivory Coast vs. Norway - AT&T Stadium (Arlington)

Mexico vs. Ecuador - Estadio Azteca (Mexico City)

France vs. Sweden - MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford)

July 1

United States vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina - Levi's Stadium (Santa Clara)

Belgium vs. Senegal - Lumen Field (Seattle)

England vs. DR Congo - Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)

July 2

Portugal vs. Croatia - BMO Field (Toronto)

Spain vs. Austria - SoFi Stadium (Inglewood)

Switzerland vs. Algeria - Vancouver Stadium (Vancouver)

July 3

Argentina vs. Cape Verde - Hard Rock Stadium (Miami)

Australia vs. Egypt - AT&T Stadium (Arlington)

Colombia vs. Ghana - Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City)

Canada the first team through to the round of 16

How good that feel, Canada fans? The maple leaf is flying solo. But not for long...

Eustáquio's composed finish sends Canada through

Want to see the Canada goal that created history? Here it is, in all its glory. 

A clearing header lands to Stephen Eustáquio, who brilliantly strokes the ball into the bottom corner. A Canadian hero forever.  

Who will Canada play in the round of 16?

The reward for beating South Africa is a round of 16 game against either the Netherlands or Morocco, who meet in the last 32 tomorrow. 

Canada vs Netherlands/Morocco will take place on July 4 in Houston. 

Canada make history at the 2026 World Cup... again!

What a finish to what was a pretty terrible second half! Eustáquio showed brilliant composure to score Canada's first ever World Cup knockout goal, and secure their first World Cup knockout win. They're on their way to the round of 16!

FULLTIME! SOUTH AFRICA 0-1 CANADA

CANADA ARE INTO THE ROUND OF 16! 

And in dramatic fashion!

CRÉPEAU! The Canada goalkeeper collects a high ball into the box and that should be that!

Late pressure from South Africa, but two crosses into the box are cleared. 

Guess what? South Africa goalkeeper Williams is moving rather more quickly now...

What can South Africa do now?! They have almost no time left!

South Africa 0-1 Canada (Eustáquio)

South Africa clear a cross from the right but only to Eustáquio, who brilliantly guides the ball into the bottom corner from the edge of the box!

O CANADA!

Five minutes of additional time to be played. 

Vital interception from De Fougerolles!

For a second, it looked as if Rayners could be going clean through on goal for South Africa. Until De Fougerolles stepped in and decided otherwise, that is. 

Wasteful from Davies

You expect better from Davies there. He has the ball out wide on the left and has four players in the box but tries to pull it back to the edge of the area, only to find a yellow jersey. 

Ooooh, Shaffelburg was almost through on goal there and would've been had it not been for a crucial interception from Modiba. 

South Africa subs

On Moremi and Ravners

Off Museko and Makgopa

Appollis tests Crépeau!

Appollis went close from the edge of the box a little earlier and he tries his luck again. He gets this one on target, but Crépeau is equal to it. 

Davies gets the chance to run at the South Africa defense for the first time, but that's excellent defending from Mudau, who nabs the ball off the Canadian winger. 

Promise David looks as if he's about to go clean through, but ball holds up and he has to check. He tries to play the ball through for namesake Jonathan, but the pair get their wires crossed, despite sharing the same surname. 

Davies' attacking role

Davies, by the way, is playing in an attacking left-sided role for Canada, rather than at left-back, where he often plays for Bayern. 

Jonathan David denied!

Davies is already making a difference! This time he sneaks the ball through to Jonathan David, who tries to fire the ball high past Williams at the near post from a tight angle, but is denied by the South Africa goalkeeper. 

Promise David shoots just wide!

And Davies almost makes an immediate impact! He prods the ball into the path of Promise David, whose low shot from the edge of the box creeps just wide!

Alphonso Davies returns for Canada!

He's back! Davies makes his first appearance of the tournament, coming on for Buchanan. Huge applause for the Bayern man. 

Canada subtitutions

On Promise David and Shaffelburg

Off Oluwaseyi and Liam Millar.

South Africa are at it again, ponderously passing the ball about in defense. The jeers are getting louder. 

Canada's huge double chance: Oluwaseyi denied

Here's that huge double chance the Canadians had just before the break. Easily the most dangerous attack of the second half. 

That felt like a long hydration break. Play is back underway now, however. 

"Summer of '69" in the summer of '26

“Summer of '69” rings out around SoFi Stadium as our players hydrate. We had to have at least one Canadian number. I'm not sure if we got a South African one in the first half, though. 

Second-half hydration break

Hit me, Mr DJ. 

Canada's Sigur gets yellow card

Sigur has only just come on the field and he's already made an impact. Maybe just not the way he wanted. A yellow card for a cynical foul in midfield. 

So close for Canada!

Almost the opener for Canada! Oluwaseyi outpaces the South African defense and is clean through on goal. His low shot is saved by Williams, the ball scoops up into the air and Mbokazi gets to it just ahead of David to prevent a certain goal! So close!

Appollis shoots just wide!

The best effort of the second half, by far! Appollis finds space 25 yards out and swings one off the outside of his boot. Crépeau is very confident it's going wide but it goes just past the post!

Canada changes

Maybe this can spark Canada back into life. 

On De Fougerolles and Sigur

Off Bombito and Saliba.

Mexican wave in California

Do Mexicans just call it a wave? Genuine question. Anyway, the fact that it's happening at all tells you everything you need to know about what's happening on the field at the moment. Shame, it was a good first half. 

Mudau wows Los Angeles

The lesser spotted double nutmeg, performed by South Africa's Mudau, went down well. The highlight of he second half so far, without question. 

South Africa get bodies forward, including Modiba out on the left. He swings a high cross into the Canada box, but it's easily claimed by Crépeau. 

Canada's Saliba gets first yellow card

The tedium that has been the start of the second half has been interrupted by the first yellow card of the game, shown to Canada's Saliba, who couldn't deal with Mudau having pulled off two nutmegs in a row. 

World Cup 2026

What happens in case of a tie in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup?

As the second half ticks on, you may start wondering what happens if South Africa and Canada can't be separated here in Los Angeles. If that is the case, the lovely Jennifer Bubel is here to explain everything to you in perfect detail. 

It is Canada who are looking to make things happen, though, as was the case in the first half. They're trying to build up a head of steam, but not quite getting there just yet. 

I'm going to say this has been a lowkey start to the second half. Neither team has been up to anything note in the first few minutes. 

South Africa substitution

I should probably mention that South Africa made a halftime change: 

On Mbatha 

Off Mofokeng

Canada are first on the attack, but Oluwaseyi takes a swing and a miss at Johnston's right-wing cross. The ball had actually gone out before the defender crossed anyway, it seems. 

South Africa vs Canada: second half underway

Here we go again! Come on, lads, give us a few goals. Second half underway in Inglewood. 

South Africa well in the game

South Africa have had one shot on goal, an early effort from Mokoena which drew an uncomfortable stop from Crépeau. They've looked to get in behind the Canada defense a few times, but they've spent most of the game so far on the back foot and haven't endeared themselves to local fans with their timewasting on the ball. 

Another angle of Canada penalty claim

This is what I was talking about in my last post. I don't think there's enough there for a penalty, and neither did referee João Pinheiro. 

Laryea penalty appeal for Canada

Canada, and Jesse Marsch in particular, thought they should have had a spot kick for this challenge on Laryea. You can't see it from this clip, but replays show Mudau got a tiny touch on the ball, while Laryea appears to kick the South African's leg. Probably the right call not to give the penalty. 

Bombito's big chance for Canada

This is how close Canada came to scoring in the closing stages of the first half. Bombito thinks he's scored, but Modiba says no. Buchanan's follow-up was well saved by Williams. 

Cornelius and Bombito go close for Canada

This X post makes it seem like the second half is just about to begin, but it's not. The first half has just ended. And it is one in which Canada will feel they should have taken the lead in. We've not seen much of Jonathan David, but he will think he should've done better than volley Eustáquio's corner wide at the near post. In any case, Canada have had two even better chances, with Cornelius heading straight at Williams when he really should've scored, and Bombito's header was cleared off the line by Modiba.

Halftime: South Africa 0-0 Canada

After a bright start from South Africa, Canada definitely had the better of that first half. We go in goalless at the break.  

Canada want another penalty!

David is next to go down in the box, but referee Pinheiro is having none of it once again. Jesse Marsch does not look happy...

Three minutes of added time to be played. 

VAR says no to Canada penalty!

Larryea goes down in the box, but out referee says there's nothing doing. After a VAR check, the decision is upheld. 

Canada... off the line!

The closest we've come to a goal so far! Eustáquio's corner is headed past Williams by Bombito, who looks to have scored until Modiba clears off the line! Buchanan is then denied by Williams in a goalmouth scramble!

Johnston almost in!

I'm not sure what right-back Johnston was doing over on the left but he caused havoc in the South Africa defense. The Canada man pokes the ball towards the six-yard box and Mbokazi hacks it away!

South Africa are really not making themselves popular here with their lax approach when it comes to restarting the game. How very 2024. 

Oluwaseyi gets his head to this ball into the box, but it sails harmlessly over the bar. 

Here comes another free kick for Canada in a very promising position. Oluwaseyi is barged over and Eustáquio will get another chance to deliver. 

That was brave, to say the least, by Okon, who goes for a drag back inside his own box, which takes him away from Oluwaseyi. That'll have taken a few hours off coach Hugo Broos' life. 

South Africa back on the attack

Appollis looks to make an impact going the other way now and charges into the Canada box. But Bombito comes across to meet him, stops him and wins a goal kick for good measure. 

This giving-the-ball-away-in-your-own-half lark is catching, with Mokoena the next culprit. He gets away with it, much to his relief. 

Oluwaseyi tests Williams!

That's really slack from Mbokazi, who gives the ball away inside deep in his own half. Millar squeezes a pass out wide to Oluwaseyi, who shoots straight at Williams from a tight angle. 

That's excellent defensive work from Appollis. Buchanan and Johnston combine well down the Canada right and it looks as if the latter is going to swing the ball into the box. Appollis has other ideas though and whips the ball off his toes. 

When they eventually do get their fingers out, Mokoena launches a cross into the box, which momentarily looks dangerous but is claimed by Crépeau. 

South Africa not making friends

The only reason I was able to post about Alba and Ramírez is because South Africa have been doing some more ‘legal’ time wasting, just keeping the ball at the back without any rush to get forward. They are not making friends among local fans. 

Hollywood represented... in Los Angeles

In case you were wondering which Hollywood stars would be in attendance (the game is just along the road, after all), the first up are Jessica Alba and Danny Ramírez. 

Canada are knocking it about very nicely here. Larryea and Millar are looking threatening down the left. It comes to nothing this time, but there's plenty of promise. 

Back underway

Good news - the hydration break is over, we're back underway!

Best chances for Canada

We've had two really good chances, both for Canada. Jonathan David miscued wide from a corner, but that Derek Cornelius header that really should've produced the first goal. Like, reeeeaaaally. 

Anyway, Canada are definitely on top. 

First-half hydration break

Fancy some more boos? Go on then. It's the first-half hydration break.

Cornelius should score!

How has Cornelius missed that?! Eustáquio floats the free kick right onto the head of the Canada defender, who is all alone yards from goal. Instead of finding the net, he heads tamely into Williams' hands. 

Canada free kick!

Not just any free kick, one in a dangerous position!

That's a bit more like it. Mokoena looks to play in Makgopa over the top but the pass has a bit too much on it and runs through to Crépeau. 

Boos for South Africa!

In their attempt to take the sting out of the game, South Africa have slowed things down, passing the ball around at the back, including to goalkeeper Williams. That hasn't gone down well with the fans in L.A., who want to see something more exhilarating. 

Canada have definitely taken a step forward in the last few minutes. South Africa have been unable to get out of their own half. They have looked threatening when they have gone on the attack, though. 

David shoots wide!

Eustáquio's corner lands at the feet of David, whose first-time volley skews wide of the near post! A decent chance!

Canada work the ball into the box once again, but a sea of yellow jerseys swarm around David to stop him from shooting. It'll be a corner though. 

Great play from Canada!

Great play from Canada! Oluwaseyi looks to have played Millar clean through but the winger attempts to cut inside Mbokazi instead of shooting, which allows the defender to make an excellent challenge. 

Oluwaseyi wastes Canada chance!

Ooooh, that looked as if it were going to be a good chance for Oluwaseyi for Canada. Johnston plays a lovely ball into his feet on the edge of the box, but his touch is just too heavy and he's unable to get a shot away. 

Millar looks as if he's about to race in behind Mudau on the Canada left but goes down under a challenge from the South African. That looked a foul to me, but the referee says no. 

A scrappy couple of minutes as possession switches from one side to another. Both teams are showing plenty of attacking intent, which bodes well!

That corner comes to nothing, horribly overhit. Forget it ever happened. 

Canada danger!

That's good play from Les Rouges! Oluwaseyi and then Millar work it out to the overlapping Larryea, whose cross into the box from a dangerous position is deflected out for a corner. 

Canada respond!

Canada go right up the other end and also have their first effort on goal. Although it's a pretty forgettable one from Eustáquio, which flies well over the bar. 

South Africa first to threaten!

Suddenly, South Africa have sprung to life! Makgopa looks as if he's going to get in behind the Canada defense but is unable to get clear. The ball eventually comes out to the edge of the box to Mokoena, whose low curling shots is stopped unconvincingly by Crépeau. 

Just as I say that, Maseko looks to get Appollis in behind the Canada defense but Johnston is alert to ensure that doesn't happen. 

We appear to have settled into a pattern of Canada controlling the possession and South Africa attempting to hold them off. No goal threat just yet, though. 

Canada are first to enjoy a decent little spell in the opposition half. Millar looks to make some headway down the left flank but his attempt to get the ball in the box is thwarted. 

Not much going on in the first couple of minutes, with both teams seeing some possession but not keeping it for any length of time. 

Underway in Los Angeles!

Here we go! Canada gets us going. They're playing from left to right, if you want to imagine every kick off the ball.

Canada team to play South Africa

Remember, there's no Alphonso Davies or Cyle Larin for Canada. Both are on the bench. Here comes “Titanium.”

Crépeau; 2 Johnston, 15 Bombito, 13 Cornelius, Laryea; 17 Buchanan, 25 Saliba, 7 Eustáquio, 11 Millar; 10 J. David, 12 Oluwaseyi. 

South Africa team to play Canada

One last time, while David Guetta is playing before kickoff. 

Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mokoena, Sithole; Maseko, Mofokeng, Appollis; Makgopa.

(O) Canada anthem review

I'm guessing you might be more familiar with O Canada. That was quite a weird rendition, which didn't feel very loud from the stands for some reason. Jesse Marsch, Canada's American coach, was belting it out, however. 

South Africa anthem review

I must say I wasn't overly familiar with the South African anthem, probably because they haven't played in many World Cups. A quaint number with some powerful bits in the middle. 

Teams on the way out in Los Angeles

To the familiar backdrop of Shakia and “Dai Dai,” the teams are on the way out at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood! National anthems coming right up. South Africa first. 

South Africa and Canada out to make history

This is it. Or almost it, anyway. Either South Africa and Canada are about to make more history. But which one will it be? I'm going Canada, but I've been wrong before, and I'll no doubt be wrong again. 

Who's the referee for South Africa vs Canada?

Today’s game in Los Angeles will be refereed by Portugal’s João Pinheiro. The 38-year-old, who you may have seen in the Champions League or Europa League, took charge of Switzerland’s 4-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in Canada’s group earlier in the tournament. He’ll be assisted by countrymen Bruno Jesus and Luciano Maia.

Spain’s Carlos del Cerro Grande will be the main man in front of the VAR monitor.

Referee: João Pinheiro (Portugal)

Assistant Referee 1: Bruno Jesus (Portugal)

Assistant Referee 2: Luciano Maia (Portugal)

Fourth Official: Omar Al Ali (United Arab Emirates)

Video Assistant Referee (VAR): Carlos del Cerro Grande (Spain)

Assistant VAR: Rodolpho Toski (Brazil)

Support VAR: Hernán Mastrángelo (Argentina)

Larin starts on the bench for Canada

Along with Davies, Cyle Larin starts on the bench for Canada, which is a bit of a surprise considering he's bagged a couple of goals so far. He'll be looking to make an impact later in the game. Oluwaseyi starts alongside David in attack. 

World Cup 2026

Why is Alphonso Davies not playing today for Canada against South Africa in the World Cup?

In case you've just joined us, or are late to the World Cup party, and are wondering where on earth Alphonso Davies is in that Canada lineup, my esteemed colleague Joe Brennan has put this piece together to answer all questions regarding his whereabouts. 

South Africa vs Canada: Lineups for round of 32 clash

With a little over 15 minutes to go until kickoff, it's probably a good time to remind you of those South Africa and Canadian lineups for today's game. 

South Africa

Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mokoena, Sithole; Maseko, Mofokeng, Appollis; Makgopa.

Canada

Crépeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Laryea; Buchanan, Saliba, Eustáquio, Millar; J. David, Oluwaseyi. 

Canada: last 10 games

Canada's defeat to Switzerland, meanwhile, brought to an end an unbeaten run of nine games. They'd had plenty of draws in there, though, with only three wins in their last 10. 

Jun. 24: Canada 1-2 Switzerland (World Cup)

Jun. 18: Canada 6-0 Qatar (World Cup)

Jun. 12: Canada 1-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina (World Cup)

Jun. 5: Canada 1-1 Republic of Ireland (Friendly)

Jun. 1: Canada 2-0 Uzbekistan (Friendly)

Mar. 31: Canada 0-0 Tunisia (Friendly)

Mar. 28: Canada 2-2 Iceland (Friendly)

Nov. 18: Canada 2-0 Venezuela (Friendly)

Nov. 13: Canada 0-0 Ecuador (Friendly)

Oct. 14: Canada 0-0 Colombia (Friendly)

South Africa: last 10 games

South Africa might have made history in qualifying for the round of 32, but they haven't been in amazing shape of late. Bafana Bafana have won just one of their last seven games, but it was a crucial one against South Korea. 

Jun. 24: South Africa 1-0 South Korea (World Cup)

Jun. 18: Czech Republic 1-1 South Africa (World Cup)

Jun. 11: Mexico 2-0 South Africa (World Cup)

May 29: South Africa 0-0 Nicaragua (Friendly)

Mar. 31: South Africa 1-2 Panama (Friendly)

Mar. 27: South Africa 1-1 Panama (Friendly)

Jan. 4: South Africa 1-2 Cameroon (Africa Cup of Nations)

Dec. 29: Zimbabwe 2-3 South Africa (Africa Cup of Nations)

Dec. 26: Egypt 1-0 South Africa (Africa Cup of Nations)

Dec. 22: South Africa 2-1 Angola (Africa Cup of Nations)

Canada's full World Cup record

1930: Did not enter

1934: Did not enter

1938: Did not enter

1950: Did not enter

1954: Did not enter

1958: Failed to qualify

1962: Withdrew

1966: Did not enter

1970: Failed to qualify

1974: Failed to qualify

1978: Failed to qualify

1982: Failed to qualify

1986: Group stage

1990: Failed to qualify

1994: Failed to qualify

1998: Failed to qualify

2002: Failed to qualify

2006: Failed to qualify

2010: Failed to qualify

2014: Failed to qualify

2018: Failed to qualify

2022: Group stage

Just under 30 minutes to go!

Kickoff is fast approaching in Los Angeles! There's around 30 minutes to go until we get underway. The players from both teams are out getting a good luck at SoFi Stadium... sorry, FiFA, Los Angeles Stadium. 

Canada target 2026 World Cup hat trick

As we said a bit earlier, Canada have made World Cup history this year in a couple of different ways. They earned their first ever point in their opening game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, and have made the knockout stage for the first time. Now, Jesse Marsch's boys are aiming for their maiden knockout victory.

In their previous tournaments, Canada were beaten by France, Hungary and the Soviet Union without scoring a goal in 1986, and lost to Belgium, Croatia and Morocco last time out in 2022.

Canada’s all-time top scorers on 2026 roster

David and Larin are, by the way, officially Canada’s deadliest strikers ever. No one else has scored more goals for Les Rouges than those two, with David sitting on top of the tree.

Jonathan David – 42 goals in 80 games

Cyle Larin – 32 goals in 93 games

Dwayne De Rosario – 22 goals in 81 games

Lucas Cavallini – 19 goals in 40 games

John Catliff – 19 goals in 43 games

Dale Mitchell – 19 goals in 55 games

Canada: Players to watch

It probably goes without saying, but the onus will be on attacking duo Jonathan David and Cyle Larin, who have scored five goals between them so far, to keep their shooting boots on in a game that Canada are favorites to win.

All eyes, of course, will be on whether substitute Alphonso Davies gets some game time, although we probably shouldn’t expect him to be right up to speed even if he does get off the bench.

Canada: Group B summaries

Similarly, if you want to have a more detailed look at those games against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar and Switzerland, here's some more pre-match reading.

Canada in the 2026 World Cup group stage

Canada will be frustrated not to have done better in the group stage, despite qualifying in second spot. Playing all three games on home soil, they thrashed Qatar 6-0, the joint biggest win of the tournament so far, in their middle fixture, with Jonathan David scoring the first hat trick of the 2026 World Cup. In their opening match, they dominated against Bosnia and Herzegovina but fell behind midway through the first half and had to wait until the final stages to equalise through Cyle Larin. After going 2-0 down to Switzerland in their last game, Promise David brought them back into the game and they very nearly snatched a point, which would have been enough to see them top the group on goal difference ahead of the Swiss.

As it was, Canada finished second on four points, edging out Bosnia and Herzegovina, who also went through, on goal difference.

South Africa's full World Cup record

1930: Did not enter (not a FIFA member)

1934: Did not enter (not a FIFA member)

1938: Did not enter (not a FIFA member)

1950: Did not enter (not a FIFA member)

1954: Did not enter (not a FIFA member)

1958: Did not enter (not a FIFA member)

1962: Did not enter (not a FIFA member)

1966: Not admitted

1970: Banned (due to Apartheid state and racial segregation)

1974: Banned (due to Apartheid state and racial segregation)

1978: Banned (due to Apartheid state and racial segregation)

1982: Banned (due to Apartheid state and racial segregation)

1986: Banned (due to Apartheid state and racial segregation)

1990: Banned (due to Apartheid state and racial segregation)

1994: Failed to qualify

1998: Group stage

2002: Group stage

2006: Failed to qualify

2010 (hosts): Group stage 

2014: Failed to qualify

2018: Failed to qualify

2022: Failed to qualify

South Africa's complex World Cup history

Until this year, South Africa had only ever played in three World Cups, in 1998, 2002 and 2010. On each occasion, they were eliminated in the group stage. Still, they left their mark on the 2002 and 2010 tournaments with victories over Slovenia and Mexico respectively. It hosted the World Cup for the first time 16 years ago. 

Before then, the country was either not a FIFA member or had been banned from taking part, with world soccer's governing body opting to distance itself from the Apartheid state and its policy of racial segregation in sport. South Africa was admitted to FIFA in 1991, when the Apartheid system was in the process of being demolished and a new multi-racial federation was formed.

South Africa: Players to watch

Teboho Mokoena’s return from suspension should be a big boost, although South Africa defeated South Korea without him anyway, and didn't win a game with him in the team. His work rate in midfield will be important in both attack and defense.

With Canada the favorites to progress, the onus will be on defensive duo Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who plays for Chicago Fire, and Khuliso Mudau to continue their fine form in the group stage.

South Africa: Group A summaries

I've given you a brief summary of how South Africa’s group stage panned out, but if you want to dive in in a little bit more details, have at look at these summaries from their three Group A fixtures.

South Africa in the World Cup 2026 group stage

I'm just going to say it. If you’d told me South Africa were going to qualify for the knockout rounds after watching their opening game against Mexico, I would’ve thought you were mad, drunk, or both. But what do I know?

After losing 2-0 (going on for or five) to El Tri, Hugo Broos’ team bounced back slowly and steadily to claim second place in Group A. A late penalty from Teboho Mokoena salvaged a draw, and their first point, against Czechia, before they won the South derby against Korea thanks to a solitary Thapelo Maseko strike.

That saw South Africa finish on four points, well behind Mexico, who had a perfect record, but a point ahead of South Korea and three better off than Czechia.

South Africa team to play Canada: Mokoena returns

As for South Africa, this is how they'll line up in Los Angeles (sorry, Inglewood):

Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mokoena, Sithole; Maseko, Mofokeng, Appollis; Makgopa.

As expected, Mokoena returns to anchor the midfield.  

Canada team to play South Africa: Davies on the bench

Here we go! As expected, Alphonso Davies is only fit enough for a place on the bench. Surely we'll see him later?

Crépeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Laryea; Buchanan, Saliba, Eustáquio, Millar; J. David, Oluwaseyi. 

That looks like a 4-4-2 for the Canadians. 

Golden Boot chase: Messi leads the way

With the group stage now complete at the 2026 World Cup, the race for the Golden Boot is hotting up in North America, where several big names lead the charge.

Since the inception of the World Cup in 1930, nobody has won the Golden Boot twice, yet that could soon change as Kylian Mbappé already has one on his shelf at home.

Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi - who currently tops the 2026 standings with six goals - are among those standing in his way.

With that in mind, let's take a look at how the top scorers list for this summer’s World Cup is shaping up...

Messi - 6

Mbappé, Dembélé, Vinícius, Haaland - all 4

Undav, Manzambi, Sarr, Brobbey, Cunha, Saibari, Jonathan David, Kane, Just, Wissa - all 3

FIFA Fan Festival Los Angeles at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

While the group stages are fun, and maybe even a little overwhelming in this first World Cup with 48 teams, the meat and potatoes of this tournament are here. The round of 32 starts today and ends on July 3. We roll right into the round of 16 the next day as we will be celebrating July 4 with two games a day until July 7. July 8 will be the first day without soccer since Mexico and South Africa kicked off this tournament on June 11th. The quarters start on July 9 and run through to July 11, with the semifinals following on July 14 and 15. After a couple of days off, the World Cup is back with the third-place playoff on July 18 and, much more importantly, the final on July 19.

Who will South Africa or Canada play in the round of 16?

Whichever one of South Africa and Canada wins today's game will take on either the Netherlands of Morocco in the round of 16. Those two meet tomorrow in Monterrey in the last 32.

The last 16 clash will be played on July 4 in Houston.

Surprise 2026 World Cup eliminations

Uruguay’s exit is easily the most surprising result of the group stage. A nation with deep World Cup pedigree and expectations of making a run, Uruguay couldn’t find enough consistency and was edged out despite finishing with two points.

Elsewhere, Türkiye and South Korea will feel they left opportunities on the table after finishing with three points but still falling short in the new format that allowed some third-place teams to advance.

Scotland’s Tartan Army won the hearts of the people of Boston and Miami but the team didn’t pick up enough points to enable them to charm other parts of North and Central America.

Here’s every team eliminated after the group stage at the 2026 World Cup:

Group A: South Korea (3 points), Czechia (1 point)

Group B: Qatar (1 point)

Group C: Scotland (3 points), Haiti (0 points)

Group D: Türkiye (3 points)

Group E: Curaçao (1 point)

Group F: Tunisia (0 points)

Group G: Iran (2 points), New Zealand (1 point)

Group H: Uruguay (2 points), Saudi Arabia (2 points)

Group I: Iraq (0 points)

Group J: Jordan (0 points)

Group K: Uzbekistan (0 points)

Group L: Panama (0 points)

Early knockout storylines and bracket takeaways

Some of the tournament favorites have not been that lucky with the bracket. France and Germany, two perennial contenders, are on a collision course for the Round of 16 if both handle business. That means one giant will be eliminated far earlier than expected.

Brazilalso faces a tricky opener against Japan, a team capable of springing an upset, while England’s path could quickly become complicated depending on how the bracket unfolds.

On the other side, defending champions Argentina appear to have caught a favorable draw, opening against Cape Verde. But in the World Cup, nothing is guaranteed.

One of the biggest storylines heading into the knockout stage is the success of the host nations. As we said, the United States, Mexico, and Canada have all advanced, a significant boost for the tournament’s atmosphere and momentum. But the road ahead won’t be easy.

Mexico, in particular, faces a difficult test against Ecuador, while the United States and Canada will each need to prove they can handle the pressure of knockout games on their home soil.

Round of 32 kicks off: games, dates, times

The knockout stage kicks off June 28 and runs through July 3, with games spread across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

June 28

South Africa vs. Canada - SoFi Stadium (Inglewood)

June 29

Germany vs. Paraguay - Gillette Stadium (Foxborough)

Netherlands vs. Morocco - Estadio Monterrey (Monterrey)

Brazil vs. Japan - NRG Stadium (Houston)

June 30

Ivory Coast vs. Norway - AT&T Stadium (Arlington)

Mexico vs. Ecuador - Estadio Azteca (Mexico City)

France vs. Sweden - MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford)

July 1

United States vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina - Levi's Stadium (Santa Clara)

Belgium vs. Senegal - Lumen Field (Seattle)

England vs. DR Congo - Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)

July 2

Portugal vs. Croatia - BMO Field (Toronto)

Spain vs. Austria - SoFi Stadium (Inglewood)

Switzerland vs. Algeria - Vancouver Stadium (Vancouver)

July 3

Argentina vs. Cape Verde - Hard Rock Stadium (Miami)

Australia vs. Egypt - AT&T Stadium (Arlington)

Colombia vs. Ghana - Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City)

Co-hosts light up 2026 World Cup

The three co-hosts, the United States, Mexico and Canada, have been among the star performers at the World Cup so far. The Stars and Stripes and El Tri both qualified for the round of 32 as group winners, and with a game to spare to boot. Special mention must go to the Mexicans for winning all three group games. France and Argentina were the only other two countries to achieve that. Not bad company to be in.

Canada, meanwhile, finished second in Group B, collecting their first ever World Cup points in the process and registering the biggest win of the World Cup so far. Had they converted some serious late pressure into an equalizer in their final group game against Switzerland, they too would have topped their group.

Canada: early team news and roster

Midfielder Ismaël Koné misses the remainder of the tournament after fracturing his tibia in the big win over Qatar. More on that coming up. The big question for Canada is whether star man Alphonso Davies, who hasn't played a single minute yet but is nearing a return, will finally get some game time.

Full Canada roster

Goalkeepers: Maxime Crépeau (Orlando City), Owen Goodman (Barnsley), Dayne St. Clair (Inter Miami)

Defenders: Moïse Bombito (Nice), Derek Cornelius (Marseille), Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich), Luc de Fougerolles (Fulham), Alistair Johnston (Celtic), Alfie Jones (Middlesbrough), Richie Laryea (Toronto FC), Niko Sigur (Hajduk Split), Joel Waterman (Chicago Fire)

Midfielders: Ali Ahmed (Norwich City), Tajon Buchanan (Villarreal), Mathieu Choinière (LAFC), Stephen Eustáquio (FC Porto), Ismaël Koné (Sassuolo), Liam Millar (Hull City), Jonathan Osorio (Toronto FC), Nathan Saliba (Anderlecht), Jacob Shaffelburg (LAFC)

Forwards: Jonathan David (Juventus), Promise David (Union Saint-Gilloise), Cyle Larin (Southampton), Tani Oluwaseyi (Villarreal)

Canada national team profile at a glance

Nickname: Les Rouges

Head coach: Jesse Marsch

All-time top scorer: Jonathan David (42 goals)

World Cups played in (including 2026): 3

Best World Cup performance: Round of 32 (2026)

Major honors: 1985 CONCACAF Championship, 2000 Gold Cup

South Africa: early team news and roster

There's good news and bad news for South Africa ahead of the game. Midfielder Teboho Mokoena is available again after suspension but fellow attacker Themba Zwane serves the final game of a three-match ban having been shown a straight red card in the opening fixture against Mexico.

Full South Africa roster

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele FC), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns), Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates), Ime Okon (Hannover 96), Khulumani Ndamane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns), Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union), Kamogelo Sebelebele (Orlando Pirates), Bradley Cross (Kaizer Chiefs), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire)

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (CD Tondela), Jayden Adams (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Forwards: Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates), Iqraam Rayners (Mamelodi Sundowns), Tshepang Moremi (Orlando Pirates), Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates), Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates), Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Lyle Foster (Burnley), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol)

South Africa national team profile at a glance

Nickname: Bafana Bafana

Head coach: Hugo Broos

All-time top scorer: Benni McCarthy (31 goals)

World Cups played in (including 2026): 4

Best World Cup performance: Round of 32 (2026)

Major honors: 1996 Africa Cup of Nations

South Africa and Canada make history… and can make some more

South Africa and Canada have both already made World Cup history by qualifying for the knockout stagefor the first time ever. It's easy to argue that’s due to the knockout rounds doubling to 32 teams rather than 16, although both finished in the top two in their groups. Then again, the 48-team format means the group stage theoretically contained weaker teams than previous tournaments. What does that all really mean? Who knows.

Either way, South Africa and Canada won’t be caring about that right now, and neither will their fans. And neither should they. As a result, one of the two will make World Cup history by winning its first ever knockout game in the tournament. But which one will it be?

What time does South Africa vs Canada kick off?

The game in Los Angeles gets underway at 12:00 p.m. local time, which works out at 3:00 p.m. ET if I'm not mistaken. Despite that, it isn’t expected to be too tasty, with a highs of 22º C/71.6º F to 24º C/75.2º F forecast during the game.

There’s a little over90 minutes to go until kick-off, stay tuned for some news, stats, facts, and whole lot more before the game gets underway.

We are live from SoFi Stadium

Today's game between South Africa and Canada, the only one of the day this Sunday, is taking place at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles (well, Inglewood, technically), imaginatively named Los Angeles Stadium for the 2026 World Cup. This will be the first time Canada play outside of Canada, which adds an extra layer of intrigue.

SoFi Stadium has hosted the following five games already:

Jun. 12: United States 4-1 Paraguay (Group stage)

Jun. 16: Iran 2-2 New Zealand (Group stage)

Jun. 18: Switzerland 4-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina (Group stage)

Jun. 21: Belgium 0-0 Iran (Group stage)

Jun. 25: Turkey 3-2 United States (Group stage)

As well as today’s round of 32 game, two more knockout matches will take place in Inglewood:

Jul. 2: Spain vs Austria (Round of 32)

Jul. 10: A quarter-final

Hello and welcome to South Africa vs Canada live!

Hello and welcome to live text coverage of the first game of the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup!South Africa against co-hosts Canada is first up as the tournament enters a completely new dynamic. The fun and games are over, ladies and gentlemen, the serious business is about to begin.

Remember that the new World Cup 48-team format means the first knockout round, for the first time in the tournament's history, is the round of 32, rather than the round of 16. That's right, we’ve had 72 games just to get rid of 16 teams. Thirty-two contenders remain for the FIFA World Cup trophy.