The 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered the knockout phase, with 32 teams advancing following the conclusion of the group stage. The first match of the round of 32 will see South Africa take on Canada at the Los Angeles Stadium at noon local time on June 29, according to Al Jazeera. South Africa earned a historic spot in the knockout rounds after a 1-0 win over Czechia, securing second place in Group A. Canada, who finished second in Group B, will face the same challenge for the first time in their World Cup history.

Bracket and Schedule Highlights

The full round of 32 bracket is now set with matches spread across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. ESPN listed several key fixtures, including Brazil vs. Japan on June 29, Germany vs. Paraguay at 4:30 p.m. ET, and Netherlands vs. Morocco at 9 p.m. ET. On June 30, Ivory Coast will face Norway, France will play Sweden, and Mexico will take on Ecuador. The first week of the knockout stage also includes matches like England vs. DR Congo and Belgium vs. Senegal.

Al Jazeera highlighted that nine African teams have reached the round of 32, a significant achievement. South Africa’s progression marks their first-ever appearance in the knockout stage of a World Cup. Canada, meanwhile, will be aiming to break a poor record against African opponents, having lost their previous two competitive matches against African teams by narrow margins.

Predictions and Statistical Insights

According to Al Jazeera, the Opta supercomputer predicts Canada as the favorite to advance against South Africa, with the team winning 55 percent of 25,000 simulated matches. South Africa was projected to win 20 percent of the simulations, with the remaining 24.9 percent ending in a draw, potentially leading to extra time and penalties. Overall, Canada is given a 67.8 percent chance to reach the quarterfinals compared to South Africa’s 32.2 percent.

Iran were one of the teams eliminated after the group stage, with Algeria securing a late qualification that knocked Iran out of the tournament. Iran had been a key contender in Group F, but their exit marks a disappointing end to their 2026 campaign.

Group and Knockout Stage Permutations

Group A saw Mexico secure first place after a 3-0 victory over Czechia, confirming their status as one of the top teams in the tournament. South Africa, previously in fourth place, moved up to second in the group with a major goal from Thapelo Maseko. They will now face Canada in the round of 32 in what is expected to be a tightly contested match.

Other notable fixtures include Spain vs. Austria on July 2, Portugal vs. Croatia on July 2, and Argentina vs. Cape Verde on July 3. The bracket is set to continue with more matches across the three host nations, with the potential for a high-profile final between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo if both teams advance through the rounds.