Canada and South Africa set for historic World Cup knockout meeting
Co-hosts Canada and South Africa are poised to make World Cup history as they face each other in the opening game of the knockout round. Both teams have reached this stage for the first time, with the match set at the impressive SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Canada will be boosted by the return of star player Alphonso Davies, while South Africa look to build on their spirited win over South Korea. Coaches Jesse Marsch and Hugo Broos are eager for their teams to go even further in the tournament.
Match highlights
- Canada lost their final group game to Switzerland, which cost them their ‘home’ status and forced them to play in the United States.
- Alphonso Davies returns from injury, with coach Jesse Marsch calling him a major "X-factor" for the team.
- South Africa advanced after a 1-0 win against South Korea, overcoming an earlier defeat to Mexico.
- Coach Hugo Broos said reaching the last 32 is already a success but emphasized the team's desire to win their next match.
- Other dramatic group stage moments included DR Congo reaching the knockouts for the first time and Argentina topping their group with a win over Jordan.
