World Cup 2026: South Africa and Canada deadlocked at halftime (0-0)

South Africa and Canada are level at 0-0 at halftime in their 2026 World Cup round-of-16 match at SoFi Stadium, with South Africa dominating possession.

Henry DONCHE

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On 28 Jun 2026 at 20:51 Updated 28 Jun 2026

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Illustration du match Afrique du Sud VS Canada, le 28/06/2026 20:00, stade Los Angeles Stadium

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SUMMARY

First half dominated by South Africa against Canada
Canada build patiently with a solid 4-4-2

The 2026 World Cup round-of-16 match between South Africa and Canada, played at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, is tied 0-0 after an evenly balanced first half.

Both teams showed attacking intent, but neither managed to convert their chances despite several shots on target. Possession was heavily in South Africa’s favor, with 64% of the ball compared with 36% for Canada.

The South Africans attempted two shots, one of them on target, while Canada had three shots, also with one on target. Goalkeepers Ronwen Williams for South Africa and Maxime Crépeau for Canada each made an important save to keep the scoreline blank.

The defensive solidity on both sides was notable, particularly from Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Aubrey Modiba for South Africa, who were very active, while for Canada, Richie Laryea and Derek Cornelius helped control the opposition attacks.

No disciplinary sanctions were recorded in this first half, which remained open to a dramatic shift after the teams return from the dressing rooms.

First half dominated by South Africa against Canada

South Africa set up in a 4-2-3-1 under head coach Hugo Broos. Midfielder Teboho Mokoena was particularly proactive, attempting a shot on target. Key players such as Relebohile Mofokeng in attacking midfield and Evidence Makgopa up front are trying to find openings.

The South African block managed to control a large share of the exchanges thanks to 86% passing accuracy on 162 completed passes, imposing its rhythm despite a few Canadian attacks.

Canada build patiently with a solid 4-4-2

Canada, led by Jesse Marsch, are relying on their 4-4-2 formation to contain the South Africans. The attacking duo of Jonathan David and Tani Oluwaseyi remain available to break through the opposing defense. Defensive midfielder Stephen Eustaquio, captain in the absence of the injured I. Koné, was active with one shot on target and two key passes.

Canada’s reduced possession at 36% reflects a more counterattacking approach, banking on the ability of players such as Tajon Buchanan and Richie Laryea to burst down the wings. Their overall passing accuracy stands at 76% from 82 attempts, indicating a more direct style of play.

South Africa

Finished 0-1 SoFi Stadium

Canada

28/06/2026 20:00 Round of 32

Fil du match

46'Remplacement - R. Mofokeng (remplace T. Mbatha)Afrique du Sud, 46e
54'Carton jaune - N. SalibaCanada, 54e
59'Remplacement - N. Saliba (remplace N. Sigur)Canada, 59e
59'Remplacement - M. Bombito (remplace L. De Fougerolles)Canada, 59e
67'Carton jaune - N. SigurCanada, 67e
70'Remplacement - T. Oluwaseyi (remplace P. David)Canada, 70e
70'Remplacement - L. Millar (remplace J. Shaffelburg)Canada, 70e
75'Remplacement - T. Buchanan (remplace A. Davies)Canada, 75e
86'Remplacement - E. Makgopa (remplace I. Rayners)Afrique du Sud, 86e
86'Remplacement - T. Maseko (remplace T. Moremi)Afrique du Sud, 86e
90+2'But - S. EustaquioCanada, 90+2e

Les chiffres du match

Tirs cadres : South Africa 1 / Canada 6
Tirs : South Africa 5 / Canada 11
Possession : South Africa 57% / Canada 43%
Corners : South Africa 1 / Canada 4
Fautes : South Africa 8 / Canada 14
Cartons jaunes : South Africa 0 / Canada 2
Passes : South Africa 446 / Canada 326
Precision des passes : South Africa 85% / Canada 79%
xG : South Africa 0.10 / Canada 1.23

Round of 32 schedule

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World Cup 2026: South Africa and Canada deadlocked at halftime (0-0)

SUMMARY

First half dominated by South Africa against Canada

Canada build patiently with a solid 4-4-2

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