South Africa: A slow start followed by an impressive turnaround

South Africa looked destined for an early exit after a disastrous opening defeat to Mexico. Hugo Broos' side created almost nothing in attack, managed only three attempts on goal, produced just 0.07 xG, and finished the match with nine men after two second-half dismissals. At that point, they appeared to be among the weakest teams in the competition.

However, Bafana Bafana have responded in outstanding fashion. They rescued a late point against the Czech Republic before pulling off an impressive victory over South Korea. While the scoreline was narrow, the performance was fully deserved, as South Africa created the better opportunities, generated a higher expected goals tally, and punished their opponents with well-executed counterattacks. The return of midfield leader Teboho Mokoena after suspension provides another timely boost, although veteran playmaker Themba Zwane remains unavailable.

Canada: Dangerous going forward, but consistency still lacking

Canada produced one of the most entertaining group-stage campaigns. Jesse Marsch's men opened with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina before recording a historic 6-0 victory over Qatar, securing the country's first-ever World Cup win and briefly climbing to the top of the group.

Their final group-stage defeat to Switzerland exposed some lingering inconsistencies, although the performance itself was encouraging. Canada actually created the better chances, finishing with a 1.66 xG compared to Switzerland's 1.11 while also leading in total shots. The biggest selection question concerns Alphonso Davies, who has yet to feature despite remaining in the squad. Meanwhile, Stephen Eustáquio is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested in the previous match.

Probable lineups

South Africa: Williams; Modiba, Mbozaki, Okon, Mudau; Sithole, Mokoena; Appollis, Mofokeng, Maseko; Makgopa.

Canada: Crépeau; Johnston, de Fougerolles, Cornelius, Laryea; Buchanan, Eustáquio, Saliba, Ahmed; David, Larin.

Match facts and head-to-head

South Africa have scored in nine of their last eleven World Cup and World Cup qualifying matches.

Canada have conceded in six of their previous seven World Cup and World Cup qualifying fixtures.

Canada netted eight goals during the group stage, with six coming in the emphatic win over Qatar.

Fewer than 11 corners have been taken in seven of South Africa's last nine World Cup and World Cup qualifying matches.

Canada have picked up at least one yellow card in each of their last six World Cup matches.

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