Canada reaches World Cup knockout stage and will meet South Africa in Los Angeles

Canada, co‑hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, advanced to the knockout stage for the first time after a 2‑1 loss to Switzerland that left them second in Group B. The win gave Switzerland the group top spot while Canada secured the round‑of‑32 place.

The Canadian team will travel to Los Angeles for a Sunday, June 28, round‑of‑32 match against South Africa, the first knockout tie for both nations. Canada’s federation has appealed to fans to cross the US border to support the squad, noting strained Canada‑US relations.

Visa data show that of 1,225 Indian visitor‑visa applications to attend World Cup matches in Canada, only 355 were approved – a 29 % success rate, reflecting the broader 41 % approval rate for all tournament‑related visas.

South Africa entered the match without midfielder Themba Zwane, whose three‑game suspension was upheld after an appeal was rejected. The team’s historic group‑stage run, including a 1‑0 win over South Korea, marks its first appearance in the World Cup knockouts.

Local businesses in Toronto report a surge in customers due to the tournament, while multiple media outlets provide daily updates on Canada’s preparations and the upcoming fixture.