A Historic Duel in Los Angeles

The World Cup 2026 continues its journey, and this Sunday marks the beginning of the thrilling knockout stage. The first match of the Round of 16 features an exciting clash between South Africa and Canada. The game is set to start at 16:00 Argentina Time (GMT-3) at the Los Angeles Stadium. For foreign fans, it's worth noting that while Argentina time is used as a reference here, the local kickoff in Los Angeles (Pacific Time) would be noon, making it a prime-time event for a global audience.

Both teams are aiming to make history by advancing to the quarter-finals for the first time in this expanded tournament format. The winner of this tie will move on to face the victor of the Netherlands vs. Morocco match.

South Africa: The African Revelation

South Africa has emerged as the great surprise of Group A after a rocky start. In their debut, they suffered a 2-0 defeat against Mexico, showing little promise initially. However, they mounted an impressive recovery.

In their second match, they managed a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic, thanks to a crucial penalty goal by Teboho Mokoena in the 83rd minute. Their group stage concluded with a thrilling 1-0 victory over South Korea, with a goal by Thapelo Maseko, securing their second-place spot in the group.

Head Coach: Hugo Broos

Canada: The Hosts Hungry for Glory

As one of the three host nations of the World Cup 2026 (alongside the USA and Mexico), Canada enjoyed home advantage during the group stage. However, for this decisive match, they must travel to US soil to continue their campaign after finishing second in Group B.

Their journey began with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia, followed by a historic 6-0 thrashing of Qatar that secured their passage. Despite a 2-1 loss to Switzerland in the final group game, they remain strong contenders.

Head Coach: Jesse Marsch

Probable Lineups

South Africa

  • GK: Ronwen Williams
  • DEF: Aubrey Modiba, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon
  • MID: Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole
  • FWD: Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Relebohile Mofokeng
  • ST: Thapelo Maseko

Canada

  • GK: Maxime Crépeau
  • DEF: Alistair Johnston, Luc de Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea
  • MID: Mathieu Choinière, Nathan Saliba, Ali Ahmed
  • FWD: Tajon Buchanan, Jonathan David, Cyle Larin

Match Information

Date Sunday, June 28, 2026
Time (ARG) 16:00 (Argentina Time / GMT-3)
Venue Los Angeles Stadium, United States
Referee João Pinheiro (Portugal)
VAR Tiago Martins (Portugal)
Broadcast DirecTV / DSports (Local reference: TyC Sports platform)

Tournament Context

Both nations are chasing a dream in the World Cup 2026. South Africa aims to prove their group stage performance was no fluke, while Canada looks to capitalize on the energy of being a host nation, despite playing this specific match on US soil.

This World Cup features an expanded format with 48 teams, allowing the top two teams from each group plus the eight best third-place finishers to advance to the Round of 16. This new structure offers more opportunities for emerging football nations to shine on the world stage.

Sources: TyC Sports