The knockout stages of the World Cup begin tonight with the first round of 32 game as co-hosts Canada take on South Africa.
For the first time in the tournament, Canada have left Toronto and will play their first knockout stage in Calafornia. It means it Canada become the first World Cup host to play an away game.
Both team are in the knockout stage for the first time, and both teams will fancy their chances of advancing to the round of 16.
Date, kick-off time and venue
South Africa vs Canada is scheduled for an 8m BST kick-off on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
The match will take place at Los Angeles Stadium (aka SoFi Stadium) in Calafornia.
Where to watch South Africa vs Canada for FREE
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on ITV1, with coverage beginning at 7.15pm BST ahead of an 8pm kick-off.
Live stream: UK viewers can also catch the contest live online via ITVX app or the channel’s website.
Free highlights: World Cup highlights are available on FIFA’s official YouTube channel, along with BBC iPlayer / ITVX app and their websites.
South Africa vs Canada team news
South Africa will be boosted by the return of Teboho Mokoena after he served a one-match suspension, although Themba Zwane remains unavailable following his red card against Mexico.
Mokoena is expected to replace Yaya Sithole in what could be the only change to the lineup, with Evidence Makgopa set to lead the attack once again.
South Africa squad: Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Sipho Chaine, Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Olwethu Makhanya, Bradley Cross, Thabang Matuludi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Ime Okon, Samukele Kabini, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole, Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng, Lyle Foster, Iqraam Rayners, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko
Canada, meanwhile, will be without Ismael Kone after he suffered a tibia fracture against Qatar, while Stephen Eustaquio and Alfie Jones face late fitness tests ahead of the match.
Alphonso Davies could make his first World Cup appearance from the bench after recovering from a hamstring injury, with Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, and Tajon Buchanan all expected to retain their places in attack.
Canada squad: Dayne St Clair, Maxime Crepeau, Owen Goodman, Alistair Johnston, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea, Niko Sigur, Joel Waterman, Luc de Fougerolles, Moise Bombito, Alphonso Davies, Alfie Jones, Stephen Eustaquio, Ismael Kone, Tajon Buchanan, Mathieu Choiniere, Ali Ahmed, Nathan Saliba, Liam Millar, Marcelo Flores, Jacob Shaffelburg, Jonathan Osorio, Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tani Oluwaseyi, Promise David
South Africa vs Canada prediction
it will be interesting to see how Canada react to playing away from home, and after a not-too-insignificant travel time.
These two teams are very evenly matched, and I am expecting it will be a very narrow victory either way.
I have a feel Bafana Bafana will edge it.
South Africa to win, 1-0 after extra time.
Head to head (h2h) history and results
South Africa wins: 1
Canada wins: 0
Draws: 0
South Africa vs Canada match odds
South Africa to progress: 12/4
Canada to progress: 3/10
Odds via UK betting sites (subject to change).
