After finishing second in the final Group B standings, Canada secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32. Today, they will face South Africa at Los Angeles Stadium, as the African team also finished as runner-up in Group A.
Canada’s future in the tournament now hinges on today’s result against Bafana Bafana. Once again, Alphonso Davies isn’t starting for Canada but will be ready to come off the bench if needed.
The die has been cast, and there is no longer any room for error. From this point on, Jesse March and his players must leave everything on the field to keep their World Cup campaign alive in what has been a tournament of the highest caliber. Both Canada and South Africa are fielding strong lineups with a Round of 16 berth on the line.
What happens if Canada defeat South Africa?
If Canada defeat South Africa, they will become the first team to book its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16. There, they would face the winner of the Round of 32 clash between the Netherlands and Morocco, who are set to meet on Monday, June 29, at 9:00 p.m. ET. The Round of 16 clash will be on July 4 in Houston. A Canada win leaves South Africa out of the 2026 World Cup.
Alphonso Davies #19 of Canada walks into the pitch.
What happens if Canada and South Africa tie?
If Canada and South Africa are level after 90 minutes, the match will go to extra time. If the score remains tied after the additional 30 minutes, the winner will be decided by a penalty shootout. Canada will be playing with their black uniform today, while South Africa play dressed in yellow.
What happens if Canada lose to South Africa?
If Canada lose to South Africa, their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign will come to an end in the Round of 32. With this being a single-elimination match, a defeat would mean immediate elimination from the tournament. Referee Joao Pinheiro will officiate Canada vs. South Africa today.
