---
title: "Canada Faces South Africa in World Cup Knockout Opener"
url: https://www.hereflorence.com/2026/06/28/canada-faces-south-africa-world-cup/
date: 2026-06-28T22:03:42+00:00
modified: 2026-06-28T22:03:42+00:00
author: "Kirk G. Villatoro"
categories: ["Sports"]
site: "HERE Florence"
attribution: "HERE Florence"
---

# Canada Faces South Africa in World Cup Knockout Opener

*Source: [HERE Florence](https://www.hereflorence.com/2026/06/28/canada-faces-south-africa-world-cup/) — June 28, 2026 by Kirk G. Villatoro*

Canada and South Africa are set to compete in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup knockout stage. The two nations will face each other on Sunday in the first Round of 32 game, scheduled to be held at SoFi Stadium in the Los Angeles area.

Independent match guides have indicated a 3 p.m. Eastern Time kickoff for viewers in the United States. These guides also provide information on television and streaming services where fans can watch the match. The contest marks a significant juncture in the tournament, as teams advance to single-elimination play.

This stage of the World Cup features the top teams from the group phase, with each match carrying the consequence of elimination. Canada and South Africa advanced from their respective groups to reach this point in the competition.

Fans seeking to follow the match in the U.S. will have multiple viewing options, as detailed by various sports media outlets. The kickoff time of 3 p.m. ET allows for afternoon viewing across different time zones.

Why it matters in Florence:

While the match itself is taking place on the West Coast, the global appeal of the FIFA World Cup means that local sports bars and viewing parties in Florence may draw crowds of soccer enthusiasts. The outcome of this knockout match, like others in the tournament, will be a topic of discussion among fans in the Pee Dee region. For those interested in following the action, broadcast information has been made available through independent guides, ensuring that fans in Florence can tune in to see which team advances. The presence of international sporting events of this magnitude often sparks local interest, with residents gathering to watch and support their preferred teams or simply enjoy the high level of competition.