South Africa and Canada face off in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. The match takes place this Sunday, 28 June, at 8 PM (BST) at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
This is a historic moment for South Africa, who have reached the knockout phase for the first time. In contrast, Canada lost their final group game and with it their home advantage, setting up a fascinating encounter. Our South Africa vs. Canada prediction anticipates a tightly contested match.
Keep reading to discover our betting tips and analysis for this exciting encounter.
South Africa vs. Canada - Head-to-head record
The history between South Africa and Canada is remarkably brief, with the two nations having crossed paths on only one occasion previously.
In their single past meeting, South Africa emerged victorious. With such scarce historical data, past results offer little insight. The South Africa vs. Canada World Cup knockout match represents a chance for both sides to write a new chapter. This game on Canadian soil will be a completely different test for both teams on the biggest stage of all.
South Africa - Buoyed by historic qualification
South Africa achieved their best result by qualifying for the World Cup knockout stage for the first time, and will be full of confidence. Let’s take a closer look at their current form, recent results and tactical approach for this huge clash, before looking at the probable South Africa vs. Canada line-ups.
Recent form
South Africa made history by reaching the World Cup knockout phase for the first time. They secured four points from three group games: a 2-0 loss to Mexico, a 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic, and a 1-0 victory over South Korea. Their overall World Cup record is one win, one draw, and one defeat.
This success contrasts with their pre-tournament friendly draws against Jamaica and Nicaragua. Under Hugo Broos, the team has shown a well-organised and spirited approach, proving tough to break down. Thapelo Maseko, who scored the crucial goal against South Korea, is a key player to observe.
Their game plan centres on a solid defence and sharp counter-attacks. Despite only two goals scored, their defensive record is commendable. Crucially, South Africa has no reported injuries but one suspension (Zwane), enabling them to field their strongest side for this important encounter against Canada.
Results of the last five matches
Probable line-up for South Africa
Williams; Mbokazi, Mudau, Okon, Modiba; Maseko, Mbatha, Mokoena, Mofokeng, Appollis; Makgopa.
Manager: Hugo Broos.
Canada - Qualified despite recent loss
Let’s review Canada’s current situation. We will analyse the team’s momentum, their expectations and standout players for the trip to Los Angeles.
Recent form
Canada advanced to the knockout stages despite a mixed group stage. They drew 1-1 with Bosnia & Herzegovina and thrashed Qatar 6-0. However, a 2-1 defeat to Switzerland meant they finished second, losing home advantage for this round.
Despite their recent loss, Canada’s attack has been impressive, scoring eight goals in three matches. Jonathan David leads with three goals, and Cyle Larin has two. Coach Jesse Marsch will have to find replacements for Flores and Kone, and maybe even Jones, as they are all injured.
The main challenge for Canada is playing away from their Vancouver home. Their sole away game in the tournament resulted in a loss. This shift, coupled with the disappointment from their last game, could significantly impact the South Africa vs. Canada match against a confident foe.
Results of the last five matches
Probable line-up for Canada
Crépeau; Davies, de Fougerolles, Cornelius, Johnston; Buchanan, Saliba, Eustaquio, Ahmed; David, Larin.
Manager: Jesse Marsch.
South Africa vs. Canada - Stats
- South Africa have only managed one victory in their last five matches across all competitions.
- In contrast, Canada have lost just one of their previous ten games, showcasing strong form.
- South Africa’s World Cup matches have been low-scoring, averaging just 1.67 total goals per game.
- Canada’s games have been far more open, with an average of 3.67 total goals.
- Canada’s Jonathan David and Cyle Larin have scored a combined five goals in the tournament.
- South Africa’s goals have been shared between Thapelo Maseko and Teboho Mokoena.
Predictions for South Africa vs. Canada - A low-scoring outcome
South Africa enter this historic match with incredible defensive organisation, having conceded just three goals in the World Cup. Their disciplined approach suggests a cautious opening, making a low-scoring first half a strong possibility, with under 1.5 goals.
Canada, on the other hand, have a potent attack led by Jonathan David, but they face a resilient defence. After losing their home advantage, their confidence might be shaken, and it is likely that not both teams will find the back of the net.
This clash pits a solid defence against a strong attack, which often results in a tight contest. Therefore, our main prediction is for a decisive result in a low-scoring game, backing the “Either team to win and under 2.5 goals" market.
| South Africa x Canada | ||
| Tip | Tip | Best Odd |
| Over/Under | Under 1.5 goals in the first half | at BetMGM |
| Both Teams to Score | Both teams to score - No | at BetMGM |
The odds mentioned were collected at the time of writing this prediction and are subject to change. Always check the bookmaker"s site for up-to-date information.
Best markets to bet on South Africa vs. Canada
If you are looking for more betting angles, here are some extra tips for this match.
🔥 Half-Time Result: Draw - 0.00 at BetMGM
With so much at stake, a cautious opening from both teams is highly anticipated. South Africa"s defensive strength could nullify Canada"s attack, making a draw at half-time a plausible outcome.
🔥 Double Chance: South Africa or Canada - 0.00 at BetMGM
This South Africa vs. Canada fixture is a knockout game, so a winner is required. This means both teams will likely seek a result in normal time, favouring a decisive outcome.
Where to watch South Africa vs. Canada?
Here is where to watch South Africa vs. Canada:
- TV: BBC One (Gbr), BBC Sport (Gbr), ITV 1 (Gbr), ITV X (Gbr), STV (Gbr), UTV (Gbr)
- Streaming: STV Player (Gbr), BBC iPlayer (Gbr), BBC Sport app (Gbr)
South Africa vs. Canada - Match details
Check out the match details:
- Match: South Africa vs. Canada
- Competition: World Cup 2026
- Date: 28/06/2026
- Kick-off: 8 PM (BST)
- Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, United States
- Broadcast: BBC iPlayer (Gbr), BBC One (Gbr), BBC Sport app (Gbr), BBC Sport (Gbr), ITV 1 (Gbr), ITV X (Gbr), STV (Gbr), STV Player (Gbr), UTV (Gbr)
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