
Canada Secures Historic World Cup Last‑16 Spot with Late Victory Over South Africa
A late goal lifts Canada into the knockout stage for the first time, setting up a clash with either the Netherlands or Morocco.
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A late goal lifts Canada into the knockout stage for the first time, setting up a clash with either the Netherlands or Morocco.

A late goal secured Canada’s first ever spot in the tournament’s knockout stage, as the team overcame a disciplined South African side and a packed schedule to move forward.

In a tightly contested match in Inglewood, California, Canada edged South Africa 1‑0, advancing to the World Cup’s Round of 16 for the first time in nation history.

With Canada entering as a slight favorite and South Africa riding a surprise run, the June 28 clash at Inglewood promises a showcase of diverse talent, from Alphonso Davies to Ronwen Williams, and a reminder of the deep baseball ties that bind the two countries.

A look at how England clinched a round‑of‑32 berth, how an algorithm narrowed the gap with pundits, and what to expect from the next set of high‑stakes fixtures.

Predictions highlight France’s dominance, Messi’s legacy, and potential shocks like an early U.S. exit, while fan cultures from Argentina, Scotland and Ecuador add vibrant energy.

The Athletic’s daily preview mixes professional insight with unexpected contributors, recapping recent results and projecting the next wave of knockout‑stage battles.
After a harrowing hamstring setback, Thapelo Maseko returned to the world stage with a crucial strike that sent South Africa into the knockout rounds for the first time, a moment that reshaped his career and inspired his teammates.

Both Czechia and South Africa lost their opening World Cup matches, and a decisive encounter at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium will test their contrasting strengths.

Curacao, the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup, will face Germany in a Group E match. Coach Dick Advocaat, at 78 the oldest ever at a World Cup, returned after caring for his ailing daughter, while Germany aims to extend a nine‑match winning streak.

The expanded 48‑team World Cup opened at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, where Mexico's new midfield and goalkeeping choices faced a South African side anchored by Mamelodi Sundowns talent and Lyle Foster.

The tournament's expanded 48‑team format produced its first competitive fixture as Mexico fielded a surprising starting eleven against South Africa, featuring Erik Lira in midfield and Raul Rangel in goal.

Mexico’s eight‑game unbeaten streak and South Africa’s winless slump set the stage for a compelling clash, rooted in a solitary World Cup encounter a decade ago.

Mexico will face South Africa in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup at the iconic Azteca Stadium, a game that blends sporting history, altitude strategy, and cultural celebration.