Both South Africa and Canada step onto a World Cup knockout stage for the first time ever on June 28 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with kickoff set for 3:00 PM ET.

This is a historic afternoon for both nations. Bafana Bafana finished second in Group A after a rocky start — a loss to Mexico followed by a draw against Czechia, a win over South Korea, and a dramatic turnaround to advance. Canada, led by Jesse Marsch, came through Group B behind Switzerland, beating Qatar 6–0 along the way.

Jonathan David and the Canadian Forward Line

Canada enter as the clear favourites. Jonathan David’s goals in the group stage have been clinical. Alphonso Davies, who missed the opening match of the tournament with injury, is expected to start today and push down the left flank against a South African defence that has kept things tight but leaks when stretched.

The Canadians were better defensively in their group phase than their attacking football suggested. They conceded sparingly and organised well. Bafana Bafana are physical and press well, but their striker Percy Tau hasn’t been at his best this tournament.

South Africa’s Only Weapon May Be Their Spirit

Teboho Mokoena returns from suspension today and anchors the midfield. South Africa’s game is built on pressing, transition, and set pieces — not possession. They nearly ran Mexico closer than anyone expected in their tournament opener.

South Africa’s odds sit at 9/2 against a Canadian side listed at 4/6. Those numbers reflect the quality gap. But this is the World Cup knockout stage, and first-timers often find something extra when it matters.

Where and How to Watch

The match kicks off at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles at 3:00 PM ET on June 28, 2026. It airs on Fox in the United States. In Canada, TSN has broadcast rights. In the UK, ITV will carry it. In South Africa, SuperSport will broadcast the match.

Whoever wins today becomes the first Canadian or South African side to win a World Cup knockout match — a fact that might weigh on both teams, or simply drive them forward.