The knockout stage begins with two nations stepping into unfamiliar territory, as Canada and South Africa meet at SoFi Stadium for a place in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup.

Neither side had ever progressed beyond the group stage before this tournament, so regardless of the outcome, another piece of history will be written on Sunday.

Canada searching for another landmark victory

Jesse Marsch’s side have already transformed expectations at this World Cup. A draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina settled any early nerves before a stunning 6-0 demolition of Qatar announced Canada as genuine contenders to go deep into the tournament. Although they missed the chance to top Group B after losing 2-1 to Switzerland, qualification was never seriously threatened.

That defeat may even prove useful. After the euphoria surrounding the Qatar victory, Canada were brought back down to earth by a disciplined Swiss performance, exposing areas that will need tightening before the knockout rounds.

Even so, the Canadians remain one of the tournament’s most dangerous attacking sides. Jonathan David and Cyle Larin continue to complement each other well, Tajon Buchanan has stretched defences throughout the group stage and Alphonso Davies could finally make his long-awaited return after recovering from a hamstring injury. If Davies is fit enough to contribute, even from the bench, he gives Marsch another dimension at exactly the right time.

South Africa have already exceeded expectations

Few predicted South Africa would still be standing once the group stage concluded. An opening defeat to Mexico looked to have left Hugo Broos’s side with a mountain to climb, but they recovered impressively by taking a point from the Czech Republic before producing a composed 1-0 victory over South Korea when the pressure was greatest.

That resilience has become Bafana Bafana’s defining feature. They rarely dominate possession, but they remain organised, disciplined and difficult to break down, making them awkward opponents in knockout football.

The return of influential midfielder Teboho Mokoena from suspension is another timely boost. His composure in midfield should help South Africa slow Canada’s transitions, while Evidence Makgopa will once again carry much of the attacking responsibility.

There is also a sense of freedom surrounding Broos’s squad. Having already delivered the country’s best-ever World Cup performance, they arrive with far less pressure than their hosts.

Team news

South Africa welcome Mokoena back after suspension, although Themba Zwane remains unavailable following his red card against Mexico. Broos is expected to make only that one enforced change from the side that defeated South Korea.

Canada remain without Ismael Koné following his fractured tibia, while Stephen Eustáquio and Alfie Jones will be assessed before kick-off. Davies is edging closer to full fitness and could feature for the first time in the tournament.

Verdict

Knockout football often rewards composure as much as flair, and this promises to be one of the tighter last-32 ties. South Africa have already frustrated stronger opponents through their organisation, but Canada possess greater variety in attack and more players capable of producing the decisive moment. If the co-hosts move the ball with greater speed than they managed against Switzerland, they should eventually find the breakthrough.

Tip: Canada to win.