Co-hosts Canada and South Africa both make World Cup history as they meet in the opening game of the knockout round. Neither nation has ever reached this stage of international football’s showpiece event and they could not have asked for a grander stage than the spectacular SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
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South Africa are one of nine African sides to have reached the last 32, making the continent the major beneficiary of the expanded 48-team format. The team has restored key midfielder Teboho Mokoena to the lineup after suspension ruled him out of their last match against South Korea in Monterrey. He is the only change and comes in for defensive midfielder Thalente Mbatha.
Canada make four changes with Moise Bombito in for Luc De Fougerolles at centre back while Stephen Eustaquio has recovered from injury and replaces Mathieu Choiniere in midfield.
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