The first match of the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup pits South Africa against co-host Canada at Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday, June 28.

Both teams are making their first appearance in the knockout stages of a World Cup, ensuring history will be made. The tournament has been defined by underdog performances, and neither side will limit their ambitions.

South Africa opened the tournament with a 2-0 loss to Mexico, followed by a 1-1 draw with Czechia. A crucial 1-0 win over South Korea secured second place in Group A.

Canada drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina, thrashed Qatar 6-0, but lost 2-1 to Switzerland, finishing second in their group.

Opta's supercomputer gives Canada a 66% chance of reaching the last 16, while South Africa's probability of reaching the semifinals is barely over 1%.

The winner will face either the Netherlands or Morocco. If South Africa prevails, it would set up an all-African last-16 tie.

South Africa's Teboho Mokoena returns from suspension, but Themba Zwane remains banned. Canada's Ismael Kone is out with a fractured tibia, while Alphonso Davies may be available from the bench.

Source: www.aljazeera.com