Canada is set to make history by participating in its first-ever World Cup knockout match against South Africa on Sunday in Los Angeles. Both nations are advancing to the knockout stage for the first time in their respective World Cup histories. The winner of this upcoming match will secure a spot in the round of 16.
South Africa secured its place in the knockout stage with a 1-0 victory over South Korea on Wednesday in Monterrey, Mexico. This result allowed South Africa to finish second in Group A, behind Mexico, overtaking Czechia and South Korea in the standings. This marks South Africa‘s fourth appearance in the World Cup, having not qualified for the previous three tournaments.
Canada, currently ranked 31st globally, finished second in Group B after a 2-1 defeat to Switzerland on Wednesday at BC Place. This outcome meant Canada missed an opportunity to finish first in its group and play a knockout game in Vancouver. Despite the loss, Canada, ranked 31st, and South Africa, ranked 54th, both concluded their group stage campaigns with one win, one tie, and one loss.
Canada’s path to the knockout stage
Canada‘s journey to the knockout round has been marked by several significant achievements in this tournament. The team played its first match on home soil, secured its first point with a 1-1 tie against Bosnia & Herzegovina, and earned its first victory with a dominant 6-0 win against Qatar. These milestones highlight the team’s progress on the international stage.
The match against Switzerland saw Canada hold a 0-0 draw through the first half. However, Switzerland broke the deadlock early in the second half, with Ruben Vargas scoring at the 46th minute, followed by another goal from Johan Manzambi just 10 minutes later. Canada responded with a goal from Promise David in the 74th minute, and despite creating further opportunities, they were unable to find an equalizer.
Following the match, Promise David commented on the team’s effort, stating, “The response was good from the team, we fought back we got a goal back and pushed to the very end. It’s a shame we didn’t get the tie, but we’re ready for whatever’s next.” Midfielder Stephen Eustaquio also reflected on the team’s sentiment, noting, “That’s a good sign, that fact that we are sad and mad about this result.” He added, “We got past our group, that’s something that we really wanted. Obviously wanted to stay in Vancouver for one or two more games … but we still have a World Cup to play so we’re going with everything [we have] to Los Angeles.”
Team preparations and historical context
As Canada prepares for its historic elimination match, head coach Jesse Marsch faces important lineup decisions, particularly concerning injured players. Star defender Alphonso Davies, if able to reach game shape by Sunday, would provide a significant boost to the squad. Additionally, Stephen Eustaquio, who did not start against Switzerland due to muscle tightness, will be a key consideration for the upcoming game.
The team will also be without Ismael Kone, who sustained a broken leg during Canada‘s 6-0 victory over Qatar. These injury concerns add another layer of challenge for Canada as they head into their first knockout round fixture.
Historically, Canada and South Africa have met only once before in an international friendly. That encounter took place on November 20, 2007, with South Africa emerging victorious with a 2-0 scoreline. This upcoming match will be the first competitive meeting between the two nations in a World Cup setting.
The match is scheduled to kick off on Sunday afternoon at Los Angeles Stadium, with coverage beginning at 3pm ET / Noon PT.
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Source: sportsnet.ca
