The knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup begin tonight with a round of 32 clash between co-hosts Canada and South Africa. For the first time in the tournament, Canada have left Toronto to play their first knockout match in California, becoming the first World Cup host to play an away game. Both teams are in the knockout stage for the first time and 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 8pm BST kick-off on Sunday, June 28, 2026. The match will take place at Los Angeles Stadium (aka SoFi Stadium) in California.
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 the 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. 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.
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 feeling 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). We aim to offer every online gambler and reader of The Standard a safe and fair platform through unbiased reviews and offers from the UK's best online gambling companies. Gambling can be addictive, always play responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose. Gambling sites have a number of tools to assist you to stay in control, including deposit limits and time outs. If you think you have a problem, advice and support is available for you now from BeGambleAware or Gamcare. Any offers or odds listed in this article are correct at the time of publication but are subject to change. Terms & Conditions apply to all offers.
