South Africa to Face Canada in 2026 World Cup Round of 32

Bafana Bafana, South Africa's national football team, will compete against Canada in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup, marking the first time they have advanced to this knockout stage. The match is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on June 28.

Previously, South Africa had participated in the World Cup in 2010 but did not progress beyond the first round. They secured their place in the knockout stage after defeating South Korea 1-0, with Thapelo Maseko scoring the decisive goal.

South Africa finished the group stage with four points, having drawn 1-1 with the Czech Republic and lost to Mexico. Meanwhile, the South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed that FIFA has rejected their appeal against a three-match suspension imposed on midfielder Themba Zwane, who received a red card during the opening match against Mexico.

As a result, Zwane will miss the upcoming match against Canada, but Teboho Mokoena is set to return to the squad.