South Africa and Canada announce starting lineups for the first knockout match of the 2026 World Cup

South Africa and Canada have announced their starting lineups for the Round of 32 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This fixture will be the opening match of the tournament’s knockout stage.

The main talking point in Canada’s lineup is Alphonso Davies once again starting on the bench. There had been expectations that the Canadian star could start the match after appearing at the pre-match press conference alongside head coach Jesse Marsch. However, the defender will begin the game among the substitutes and is likely to come on during the match.

At the same time, Moise Bombito has returned to Canada’s starting lineup. The defender has fully recovered from injury and will start at centre-back for the first time at this World Cup. He replaces Luc de Fougerolles.

There are also changes in Canada’s attack: Tani Oluwaseyi starts instead of Cyle Larin, while Liam Millar returns on the left side of midfield.

For South Africa, the key change is the return of Teboho Mokoena. The midfielder missed the match against South Korea due to suspension, but now returns to the starting lineup. He replaces Thalente Mbatha.

Meanwhile, Lyle Foster has once again been left on the bench, which looks like a surprising decision from South Africa’s coaching staff.

South Africa starting lineup

Williams, Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba, Sithole, Mokoena, Maseko, Mofokeng, Appollis, Makgopa.

Canada starting lineup

Crépeau, Johnston, Eustáquio, David, Millar, Oluwaseyi, Cornelius, Bombito, Buchanan, Laryea, Saliba.

The winner of South Africa vs Canada will continue the fight for a place in the World Cup Round of 16 and will face the winner of Netherlands vs Morocco.