South Africa vs Canada Prediction, Team News, Lineups: World Cup 2026 Preview

South Africa and Canada square off in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the two nations chase history at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Sunday. Marking the first time either side has ever competed in a World Cup knockout match, the stakes could not be higher as they vie for a spot in the Round of 16.

South Africa vs Canada Match Preview

Despite being co-hosts of the tournament, Canada finds itself crossing the border to play in California after a 2-1 defeat to Switzerland in their final Group B fixture, which cost them the top spot. Before that setback, Jesse Marsch's men had impressed, securing their progression with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia & Herzegovina and a thumping 6-0 victory over Qatar.

On the other hand, South Africa arrives on a massive high. After appearing to be the weakest link following a limp opening defeat to Mexico, Hugo Broos' Bafana Bafana showcased immense resilience. A late penalty secured a vital point against the Czech Republic, and they defied the odds with an unexpected 1-0 win over South Korea to snatch second place in Group A.

South Africa vs Canada Team News & Injuries

For Canada, the biggest talking point is the potential return of Alphonso Davies. The Bayern Munich star missed the entire group phase due to a hamstring injury, but expectations are growing that he will feature-and potentially even start-against South Africa. Unfortunately, midfielder Ismael Kone has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament after suffering a fractured tibia against Qatar, and Alfie Jones remains a fitness doubt. Stephen Eustaquio is managing a minor complaint but is expected to anchor the midfield from the first whistle, while Jonathan David (who has scored three goals so far) and Cyle Larin will lead the attack.

South Africa receives a major midfield boost of their own, as Teboho Mokoena returns after serving a one-match suspension for accumulated yellow cards. He is expected to replace Yaya Sithole in the starting XI. Bafana Bafana will, however, still be without Themba Zwane, who is serving an extended three-match ban following a red card in their opening game against Mexico. Evidence Makgopa, who has been a reliable focal point, is set to continue leading the line.

South Africa vs Canada Predicted Lineups

South Africa vs Canada Match Prediction

Score Prediction: South Africa 1-1 Canada (South Africa to win on penalties)

This is entirely new territory for both teams. Canada comes in as the betting favorite, boasting a proven edge in front of goal with Jonathan David and Cyle Larin. However, South Africa is fearless, organized, and extremely dangerous on the counter-attack. With Bafana Bafana likely happy to absorb pressure and hit Canada in transition, this has all the makings of a tight, tense knockout affair. Do not be surprised if this closely contested battle goes all the way to a penalty shootout.