Round of 32 · #73
South Africa v Canada
SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California
The goals, minute by minute
- 90'+2'Stephen EustáquioGoal · 0-1
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
South Africa (2nd Group A) vs Canada (2nd Group B) · knockout
Level of the teams
South Africa: a dynamic, physical and fast team, a surprise as group runner-up.
Canada: host, physical and fast (Davies, Jonathan David), backed by its fans
and with a bit more pedigree.
Key factors
- Canada plays at home and has more individual quality.
- South Africa is intense and dangerous in transition.
- An even tie: could be settled by details, extra time or penalties.
Prediction
Result in 90': 2-1 Canada (alternative: 1-1)
- South Africa win: ~28%
- Draw: ~28%
- Canada win: ~44%
Advances: Canada (~62%)
Player to watch: Alphonso Davies, Canada's engine down the flank.
Final verdict, Confidence: medium
Canada is a slight favorite on home advantage and pedigree, but South Africa
is fast and combative. A Canadian progression is the most likely scenario.