History beckons as Canada face South Africa for World Cup last-16 spot
Canada and South Africa meet in the first match of round of 32, with both nations aiming to reach the last 16 for the first time after making history by advancing beyond the group stage.
Canada and South Africa meet at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Sunday (28 June) as both nations bid to reach the round of 16 for the first time.
Canada head into their maiden World Cup knockout match as slight favourites after an encouraging group-stage campaign.
The match kicks off at 1am early Monday (BST).
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Jesse Marsch's side recovered from a final-day defeat by Switzerland to finish second in Group B, with Jonathan David and Cyle Larin leading an attack that has shown pace, movement and clinical finishing.
South Africa have also created history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time. Hugo Broos' side relied on defensive organisation and resilience to finish runners-up in Group A, with their victory over South Korea proving decisive.
Canada have received a major boost with captain Alphonso Davies declared fit to return after missing the group stage through injury, while midfielder Ismaël Koné remains unavailable after suffering a broken leg.
Stephen Eustáquio has also been managing a fitness issue but could feature. South Africa welcomes back Teboho Mokoena from suspension, although experienced midfielder Themba Zwane remains suspended after Fifa upheld his three-match ban.
Jonathan David, Cyle Larin and Tajon Buchanan will be central to Canada's hopes, while South Africa will look to Ronwen Williams, Teboho Mokoena and Oswin Appollis to frustrate the co-hosts and strike on the counter.
With history guaranteed for the winner, the opening knockout tie promises high stakes and another memorable chapter in an already unpredictable World Cup.
Probable XI
South Africa: Ronwen Williams (c), Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Aubrey Modiba, Thalente Mbatha, Teboho Mokoena, Thapelo Maseko, Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, Evidence Makgopa.
Canada: Maxime Crépeau, Alistair Johnston, Luc de Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, Alphonso Davies (c), Tajon Buchanan, Stephen Eustáquio, Nathan Saliba, Ali Ahmed, Jonathan David, Cyle Larin.
