Canada vs. South Africa projected lineups, starting 11 for World Cup 2026 Round of 32 game at SoFi Stadium

Canada and South Africa meet on Sunday at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles in a World Cup Round of 32 tie that is historic for both nations, with each through to the knockout stage for the very first time.

Bafana Bafana, runners-up in Group A behind Mexico, bounced back from an opening 2-0 defeat to the hosts before a hard-earned 1-1 draw with Czechia and a 1-0 win over South Korea sent them through. Canada — runners-up in Group B — made their own history, taking a first-ever World Cup point against Bosnia and Herzegovina, thrashing Qatar 6-0 and then losing 2-1 to Switzerland, a result that cost them top spot and the chance to stay on home soil.

There is no safety net now. Win, and a place in the last 16 awaits; lose, and a memorable tournament is over. For two countries chasing uncharted territory, the stakes could hardly be higher. How both teams set up will be critical.

Here is how we expect the teams to line up.

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Canada projected starting 11

(4-4-2, right to left): 1. D. St. Clair (GK) — 2. A. Johnston, 4. L. de Fougerolles, 5. D. Cornelius, 22. R. Laryea — 11. T. Buchanan, 7. S. Eustaquio, 25. N. Saliba, 19. A. Davies — 20. J. David, 17. C. Larin

• Injured: I. Kone (leg fracture), S. Eustaquio (muscle, doubt), A. Davies (hamstring, doubt)
• Suspended: None

The big question for Jesse Marsch concerns the fitness of Alphonso Davies, who missed the start of the group stage with a hamstring problem. The Bayern Munich star is racing to be ready for the knockouts, and his return would transform Canada down the left. If he cannot start, Jacob Shaffelburg or Liam Millar will step in.

Either way, Canada have the two standout talents on the pitch in Davies and Jonathan David, the latter their all-time leading scorer and the man tasked with finally delivering at a World Cup. Marsch's high-pressing system relies on the energy of Tajon Buchanan and Stephen Eustaquio, who is a minor doubt with a muscle issue, and on quick transitions to feed David. On paper, Canada have the edge, but they will know one mistake against a stubborn South Africa could end it all.

South Africa projected starting 11

(4-3-3, right to left): 1. R. Williams (GK) — 2. K. Mudau, 5. N. Sibisi, 4. K. Ndamane, 3. A. Modiba — 8. T. Mokoena, 6. J. Adams, 15. T. Mbatha — 7. O. Appollis, 9. L. Foster, 11. R. Mofokeng

• Injured: None
• Suspended: T. Zwane

Hugo Broos, in his final job in management, has built a disciplined, hard-to-beat South Africa, who will fancy their chances of springing a surprise against more fancied opponents. The Belgian will trust the defensive structure that conceded just twice in the group stage.

Captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams is the man who could decide it — he is a renowned shootout specialist who saved four spot-kicks at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Teboho Mokoena pulls the strings in midfield, while teenager Relebohile Mofokeng and the pacy Oswin Appollis carry the threat in support of Lyle Foster. Expect Bafana Bafana to stay compact and look to hit Canada on the break.

Themba Zwane lost his appeal against his three-game ban for his red card against Mexico, so he must sit this game out. He can return in the Round of 16 should South Africa progress.

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Canada vs. South Africa predictions, betting odds

Canada are favourites, and with the likes of Davies and Jonathan David, they have a cutting edge South Africa cannot match on paper. Co-host status, a louder profile and the firepower up front all point toward Les Rouges, provided Davies is fit and David rediscovers his scoring touch.

South Africa, though, are exactly the kind of organised, resilient side that can frustrate a more talented opponent, and in Williams they have a goalkeeper who thrives when matches go to the wire. If Bafana Bafana keep it tight and drag Canada into a shootout, few would back against their captain. Expect a tense, low-scoring knockout that Canada should just about edge.

• Score prediction: Canada 2-1 South Africa

Canada vs. South Africa World Cup rosters

Here are the names on the South Africa vs. Canada World Cup rosters, as named for the 2026 tournament.

Canada World Cup roster

Head coach: Jesse Marsch

South Africa World Cup roster

Head coach: Hugo Broos

Where to watch Canada vs. South Africa

•  TV channel: Fox
• Live stream: fubo, Fox One, Fox Sports app/website

This match will be broadcast nationally on Fox in the United States with streaming options available on its dedicated platforms.

The best place to catch the match is on streaming service fubo, with new customers able to sign up for a FREE trial.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

Here is how to watch the match in some of the other major territories: