South Africa will be boosted by the return of Teboho Mokoena for today’s opening World Cup 2026 last-32 showdown with Canada.
The 29-year-old was forced to sit out Bafana Bafana’s crucial 1-0 win over South Korea in Group A, but is now available for selection again after a one-game ban and slots straight back into Hugo Broos’ starting lineup.
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While Mokoena's return strengthens the midfield, South Africa will still have to cope without experienced playmaker Themba Zwane.
The veteran remains suspended after receiving a red card in the opening match of the World Cup, against Mexico on June 11, and his absence will be felt in attack.
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Yaya Sithole keeps his place in the side despite Mokoena’s return. Up front, Evidence Makgopa retains his place as the focal point of the attack after leading the line in the previous outing.
Canada, meanwhile, have injury concerns as they leave Toronto for California.
Midfielder Ismael Kone has been ruled out after suffering a fractured tibia during the second group-stage match against Qatar. His injury is a major setback for the co-hosts amid additional concerns surrounding Stephen Eustaquio and Alfie Jones.
Eustaquio is currently dealing with a muscle problem but starts in spite of it, while Jones is on the bench as he struggles with fitness issues.
There is, however, some positive news for Canada with star man Alphonso Davies pushing for his first minutes of the tournament. The Bayern Munich star has been nursing a hamstring injury, but is on the bench here.
South Africa XI: Williams, Modiba, Mbokazi, Mudau, Okon, Mokoena, Sithole, Appollis, Mofokeng, Maseko, Makgopa
Subs: Chaine, Goss, Matuludi, Ndamane, Kabini, Sibisi, Makhanya, Cross, Mbatha, Adams, Moremi, Foster, Rayners, Sebelebele
Canada XI: Crepeau, Jonston, Cornelius, Bombito, Laryea, Eustaquio, Millar, Saliba, J. David, Oluwaseyi, Buchanan
Subs: Clair, Goodman, Jones, Fougerolles, Waterman, Davies, Sigur, Choiniere, Shaffelburg, Osorio, Larin, Ahmed, P. David, Nelson
Time and date: 8pm BST on Sunday June 28, 2026
Venue: Los Angeles Stadium (SoFi Stadium)
How to watch: ITV
