Canada will face South Africa in its first-ever World Cup knockout match on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
Both nations secured second-place finishes in their respective groups on Wednesday.
>>> South Africa Edges South Korea 1-0 in World Cup Group Stage
South Africa clinched the fixture by defeating South Korea 1-0 in Monterrey, Mexico, while Canada missed a chance to win Group B following a 2-1 loss to Switzerland in Vancouver.
Canada's Path to the Knockout Stage
Switzerland sealed their victory with quick second-half goals from Rubén Vargas and Johan Manzambi before Promise David scored a late consolation goal for Canada.
Despite the defeat, Canada advanced alongside Switzerland from Group B, while South Africa finished behind Mexico in Group A.
Canada head coach Jesse Marsch expressed mixed emotions about moving to the United States for the elimination stage instead of staying on home soil.
"I've been through World Cups and had big moments in my career and when you get one big win, building on that is so important," said Marsch.
Marsch noted that the atmosphere at BC Place had given his players immense motivation during the group phase.
"So I'm disappointed we weren't able to get a win or draw to keep us here [in Vancouver]," said Marsch.
The Canadian manager credited the local supporters for their passionate backing throughout the tournament's opening matches.
"But I am grateful to the country and the stadium for the energy today.
It's been awesome and that's the disappointment because we just want to continue the energy we have had here in Canada," said Marsch.
