Canada faces South Africa as knockout stage of World Cup begins
CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 2:32 PM
Last updated Jun 28, 2026
Canada and South Africa meet Sunday in the World Cup round of 32 in Los Angeles. This match follows a group stage that included 48 teams for the first time, allowing new teams from Africa and CONCACAF to establish their credentials. Though powerhouse nations still dominate, the expanded format showcased talent from emerging countries. The tournament has generated considerable discussion about the quality of the field and implications of the new format.
- •Group stage saw new teams perform well despite poor rankings.
- •Cabo Verde and Ghana reached the knockout stage, impressing in draws.
- •African nations benefitted significantly from the expansion, with 10 representatives.
- •Tournament could expand beyond 48 teams in future editions.
- 2:32 PMCBS Sports — Did the new World Cup group stage format work? Was the 48-team field a success as knockout stage begins?
"While powerhouse nations still dominate, the addition of 16 teams has allowed rising African and CONCACAF sides to prove they belong on the world stage
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