The knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring 32 teams, will kick off on 28 June at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
South Africa
The African side managed to progress from a fairly evenly matched group. The team faced Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Korea. Generally speaking, no one expected much from the national team.
There have been no particular highlights in attack. South Africa have scored no more than one goal in each of their last eight matches. In six of their last seven matches, the team have conceded fewer than 2.5 goals.
South Africa currently has no injury concerns.
Tapelo Maseko had more shots on target (8) than any other South African player during the group stage, and his only shot that actually found the net secured victory over South Korea.
Canada
The tournament hosts also played in a group that lacked strong sides. The Canadian team has no notable achievements.
In ten of Canada’s last 13 matches, fewer than 2.5 goals were scored. The team has been shown six red cards in their last ten matches.
Canada are hoping that captain Alphonso Davies and midfielder Steven Eustacchio will have recovered in time for the match.
In the Canada squad, Nathan Saliba has been involved in three goals in two World Cup matches (1 goal, 2 assists) — more than in his first 15 matches for the national team combined.
South Africa v Canada Prediction
Canada go into this match as clear favourites, but given both teams’ recent form, under 2.5 goals looks like a promising bet.
