South Africa and Canada Battle for Historic World Cup Quarter-Last Push – Softfootball

South Africa and Canada will battle for a spot within the final 16 of the 2026 World Cup on Sunday, with each nations already making historical past by reaching the knockout stage for the primary time.

Hugo Broos’ South Africa produced a formidable restoration after beginning the match with a 2-0 defeat to Mexico, responding with a 1-1 draw in opposition to Czech Republic earlier than securing an important 1-0 victory over South Korea, ending second in Group A with 4 factors.

They now face co-hosts Canada of their first-ever aggressive assembly, having beforehand defeated them 2-0 in a 2007 pleasant.

Canada additionally reached the knockout rounds for the primary time after accumulating 4 factors in Group B. Jesse Marsch’s facet started with a 1-1 draw in opposition to Bosnia-Herzegovina and adopted it with a dominant 6-0 win over Qatar, however a slim 2-1 defeat to Switzerland value them prime spot.

Crew Information

South Africa welcome again Teboho Mokoena after suspension, with the midfielder anticipated to return in opposition to Canada. Nevertheless, Themba Zwane stays unavailable after his crimson card within the opening match in opposition to Mexico.

Mokoena might exchange Yaya Sithole as the one change from the facet that defeated South Korea, whereas Proof Makgopa is anticipated to proceed main the assault.

Canada have harm considerations, with Ismael Kone dominated out after struggling a tibia fracture in opposition to Qatar. Stephen Eustaquio and Alfie Jones are additionally doubts.

Alphonso Davies has but to function resulting from a hamstring drawback, however the Bayern Munich defender might make an look from the bench.

Jonathan David and Cyle Larin are anticipated to proceed up entrance, whereas Tajon Buchanan ought to hold his place in assault.

Potential Lineups

South Africa potential beginning lineup:

Williams; Mudau, Mbokazi, Okon, Modiba; Mbatha, Mokoena; Maseko, Mofokeng, Appollis; Makgopa

Canada potential beginning lineup:

Crepeau; Johnston, De Fougerolles, Cornelius, Laryea; Buchanan, Eustaquio, Saliba, Ahmed; David, Larin

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Match Prediction

Softfootball predicts Canada 1-1 South Africa.