The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its knockout stage, with the round of 32 now officially underway. The first match of this decisive phase sees South Africa take on co-hosts Canada at a venue in Inglewood, California.

For South Africa, the fixture represents a landmark moment — the Bafana Bafana facing one of the tournament's host nations on the grandest stage in world football. Canada, sharing hosting duties alongside the United States and Mexico, carry the weight of home expectations into the contest.

The round of 32 marks the point in the tournament where every match is an elimination encounter, raising the stakes for every nation still standing in the competition.