Inglewood, June 28 (IANS) The FIFA World Cup enters its knockout phase on Monday with an intriguing Round of 32 clash between South Africa and Canada, two nations that have already scripted history by advancing beyond their respective groups. While Canada arrive with growing expectations after an encouraging group-stage campaign, South Africa will be eager to continue their fairytale run and prove that its progress was no fluke.

Canada head into the contest as the stronger side on paper despite suffering a setback against Switzerland in its final group fixture. Jesse Marsch’s men showed their attacking potential earlier in the tournament with a commanding 6-0 victory over Qatar, a performance that underlined the threat posed by forwards Jonathan David and Cyle Larin. The duo has developed an effective partnership, giving Canada confidence that it can make a deep run in the competition.

South Africa, meanwhile, have relied on resilience rather than attacking flair. Bafana Bafana managed just two goals during the group stage but combined disciplined defending with timely finishing to collect four points and secure qualification. Thapelo Maseko’s decisive strike against South Korea sealed a landmark place in the knockout rounds and showcased the team’s ability to capitalise on limited opportunities.

The match is expected to feature contrasting styles. Canada will likely dominate possession and look to break down a compact South African defence, while Bafana Bafana are set to frustrate their opponents with an organised low block before launching quick counter-attacks. Although Canada starts as the favourite, its occasional wastefulness in front of goal could keep South Africa in the contest, setting the stage for a fascinating knockout encounter with a place in the next round at stake.

How to watch South Africa vs Canada live in India

Live streaming and live telecast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be available on the Zee5 platform and app in India. A subscription will be needed.

Live telecast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be available on the Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD TV channels in India.

Key details

Date and kick-off time: Monday, June 29, 00:30 AM IST

Venue: Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood

Referee: Joao Pinheiro

Squads:

South Africa –

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Sipho Chaine

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Olwethu Makhanya, Bradley Cross, Thabang Matuludi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Ime Okon, Samukele Kabini, Mbekezeli Mbokazi

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole

Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng, Lyle Foster, Iqraam Rayners, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko

Canada –

Goalkeepers: Dayne St Clair, Maxime Crepeau, Owen Goodman

Defenders: Alistair Johnston, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea, Niko Sigur, Joel Waterman, Luc de Fougerolles, Moise Bombito, Alphonso Davies, Alfie Jones

Midfielders: Stephen Eustaquio, Ismael Kone, Tajon Buchanan, Mathieu Choiniere, Ali Ahmed, Nathan Saliba, Liam Millar, Jayden Nelson, Jacob Shaffelburg, Jonathan Osorio

Forwards: Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tani Oluwaseyi, Promise David

–IANS

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