South Africa vs Canada Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy Football Tips, Playing XI, Captain Picks for FIFA World Cup 2026 Last 32 Match

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 is set to kick off with a captivating encounter as South Africa lock horns with co-hosts Canada. Scheduled for Monday, June 29, at 12:30 AM IST, this knockout fixture will be held at the state-of-the-art Los Angeles Stadium in Los Angeles, USA. Both nations are making their maiden appearance in the World Cup knockout stages, promising a fiercely contested battle for a spot in the Round of 16. FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 Schedule in IST: Check Football WC Knockouts Time Table.

Match Details

Recent Form and What's at Stake

South Africa, under coach Hugo Broos, have defied expectations, emerging as one of the tournament's surprise packages. After an opening 2-0 loss to Mexico, Bafana Bafana demonstrated remarkable resilience, drawing 1-1 with Czechia and securing a crucial 1-0 victory against South Korea to finish second in Group A. Their journey to the knockout stage is historic, marking their first time past the group phase. The team's defensive solidity has been a cornerstone of their success.

Canada, on the other hand, qualified as co-hosts and have shown flashes of brilliant attacking football. They secured their first-ever World Cup point with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, followed by a dominant 6-0 thrashing of Qatar, their first World Cup win. A 2-1 loss to Switzerland in their final group game saw them finish second in Group B, relinquishing home advantage for this Round of 32 tie. With both teams aiming to create further history, the stakes couldn't be higher. The winner will advance to face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the Round of 16. Lionel Messi Becomes First Player to Score in Seven Consecutive World Cup Matches, Achieves Feat During Jordan vs Argentina FIFA WC 2026.

Expected Lineups

South Africa (Predicted 4-3-3):

Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams (C)

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Aubrey Modiba

Midfielders: Thalente Mbatha, Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole

Forwards: Thapelo Maseko, Lyle Foster, Oswin Appollis

Note: Teboho Mokoena returns from suspension. Themba Zwane remains suspended.

Canada (Predicted 4-4-2):

Goalkeeper: Maxime Crépeau

Defenders: Alistair Johnston, Luc de Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea

Midfielders: Tajon Buchanan, Stephen Eustáquio, Nathan Saliba, Ali Ahmed

Forwards: Jonathan David (C), Cyle Larin

Note: Alphonso Davies' fitness is a major talking point, and he could feature. Ismaël Koné is out due to injury.

Key Players to Watch

South Africa:

Ronwen Williams (GK): The captain and experienced shot-stopper is crucial for Bafana Bafana's defensive solidity.

Teboho Mokoena (MF): Returning from suspension, Mokoena is a vital presence in midfield with his passing and work rate.

Lyle Foster (FW): The Burnley forward provides a physical presence and an understanding of high-pressure environments, making him a focal point of the attack.

Thapelo Maseko (FW): The young forward was the hero against South Korea and will look to make another impact.

Canada:

Jonathan David (FW): Canada's most prolific striker and primary goal threat. He has been in incredible form this tournament.

Alphonso Davies (DF/MF): Though battling fitness, Davies is Canada's superstar and most dangerous weapon if he plays, offering blistering pace and elite dribbling.

Tajon Buchanan (MF): His tenacity and pace on the right wing make him a constant threat to defenders.

Stephen Eustáquio (MF): The midfielder is the engine of Canada's midfield, vital for transitions and control.

Dream11 Fantasy Team Prediction

Considering recent form, expected lineups, and player importance, here's a suggested Dream11 fantasy XI for the South Africa vs Canada match:

Goalkeeper:

Ronwen Williams (South Africa): Excellent shot-stopper, especially in high-pressure situations, and a leader at the back.

Defenders:

Aubrey Modiba (South Africa): A reliable full-back with defensive contributions.

Alistair Johnston (Canada): Solid defensively and can contribute going forward from right-back.

Derek Cornelius (Canada): A key part of Canada's central defense.

Khuliso Mudau (South Africa): Another strong defensive option from the South African backline.

Midfielders:

Tajon Buchanan (Canada): Pace and trickery on the wing, capable of creating chances and taking shots.

Teboho Mokoena (South Africa): His return strengthens the midfield, capable of winning balls and distributing effectively.

Stephen Eustáquio (Canada): The midfield lynchpin for Canada, crucial for ball recovery and dictating play.

Alphonso Davies (Canada): Even if he doesn't start, his potential to come off the bench and impact the game with his speed and attacking prowess makes him a high-reward pick if fit.

Forwards:

Jonathan David (Canada): The primary goalscorer for Canada, a must-have fantasy pick given his prolific nature.

Lyle Foster (South Africa): Physical presence up front for South Africa, can hold the ball and be a target man.

Captain and Vice-Captain Picks

Captain: Jonathan David (Canada): His consistent goal-scoring threat and Canada's attacking style make him the prime candidate for captaincy.

Vice-Captain: Tajon Buchanan (Canada): Provides attacking returns through assists, dribbles, and potential goals, offering a strong differential.

Budget Differentials

Thapelo Maseko (South Africa): Scored the winning goal against South Korea and could offer good value for money.

Cyle Larin (Canada): Another strong forward option for Canada, often playing alongside David and getting into scoring positions.

Oswin Appollis (South Africa): An exciting attacking talent who can contribute goals or assists.

Players to Avoid

Themba Zwane (South Africa): Currently serving a suspension.

Ismaël Koné (Canada): Ruled out of the tournament due to injury.

This knockout tie promises to be a thrilling contest between two teams eager to make history. While Canada might be considered favorites due to their attacking firepower, South Africa's defensive organization and recent upset victory make them a dangerous opponent. Choose your fantasy XI wisely to maximize your points!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 28, 2026 09:15 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).