FIFA World Cup 2026: Alphonso Davies starts on bench as Canada face South Africa in Round of 32
California, June 29
Canada captain Alphonso Davies was once again left out of the starting lineup for Sunday's Round of 32 clash against South Africa.
However, he was named among the substitutes as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury amid ongoing speculation over his fitness, as per Reuters.
South Africa welcomed back key midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who returned from suspension after missing the previous match against South Korea in Monterrey. He is the only change to the lineup, replacing defensive midfielder Thalente Mbatha.
Co-hosts Canada made four changes to their starting XI. Moise Bombito replaced Luc De Fougerolles at centre-back, while Stephen Eustaquio returned from injury to take Mathieu Choiniere's place in midfield. Liam Millar came in for Ali Ahmed, and Tani Oluwaseyi replaced Cyle Larin in attack.
Meanwhile, South Africa will continue to be without veteran playmaker Themba Zwane, who is serving the final game of a three-match suspension following his red card in the tournament opener against co-hosts Mexico.
Line-ups:
South Africa: Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Ime Okon, Aubrey Modiba, Sphephelo Sithole, Teboho Mokoena, Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thapelo Maseko, Evidence Makgopa.
Canada: Maxime Crepeau, Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea, Stephen Eustaquio, Nathan Saliba, Liam Millar, Tajon Buchanan, Jonathan David, Tani Oluwaseyi.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a neutral, this is a fascinating matchup. South Africa bringing back Mokoena is huge – he’s their engine in midfield. But losing Zwane to suspension feels like a self-inflicted wound after that red card against Mexico. Canada’s changes look positive with Eustaquio returning. Bombito at centre-back instead of De Fougerolles though… risky against Makgopa who’s been sharp.
Honestly, this game is a great example of how football is growing globally. Africa vs North America in a World Cup knockout – not something we'd have seen a decade ago! 😊 Hope Davies gets some minutes off the bench to test his fitness. Also, South Africa’s defence with Mbokazi and Okon looks solid on paper. Should be a cracker! 🇿🇦🇨🇦
I’m from India and love watching these underdog stories. Canada with home advantage but without their captain – that’s a tough spot. South Africa played well against Mexico but got demolished by South Korea. They need Mokoena to control tempo today. Both teams have attacking talent but I fear Canada’s defence might buckle under pressure. Buchanan and David need to step up!
Respectfully, I think Canada’s coach is overthinking this. Davies may not be 100%, but having him on the bench when you need goals in a knockout game is risky. South Africa will sit deep and counter – they did it well against Mexico. Expect a tight game decided by set pieces. My money’s on a 1-1 draw and extra time.
K We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.