INGLEWOOD, California — Canadian soccer captain Alphonso Davies will once again start from the bench as co-host Canada squares off against South Africa in a World Cup Round of 32 showdown on Sunday. The star player, who has been battling a hamstring injury, was left out of the starting eleven but is available as a substitute while his fitness remains a topic of concern.
South Africa welcomed back key midfielder Teboho Mokoena to their starting lineup after he missed the team’s previous match against South Korea in Monterrey due to a suspension. Mokoena’s return is the only adjustment to South Africa’s lineup, with defensive midfielder Thalente Mbatha dropping out to make room for him.
Canada, one of the tournament’s co-hosts, made four changes to their squad. Moise Bombito steps in for Luc De Fougerolles at centre back, while Stephen Eustaquio has recovered from an injury and takes over from Mathieu Choiniere in midfield. Liam Millar also enters the lineup, replacing Ali Ahmed in another midfield shift, and Tani Oluwaseyi takes the attacking spot previously held by Cyle Larin.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s experienced playmaker Themba Zwane remains on the sidelines, serving the final game of a three-match suspension he received after being shown a red card during South Africa’s opening tournament match against co-host Mexico.
Starting Lineups:
South Africa: Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Ime Okon, Aubrey Modiba, Sphephelo Sithole, Teboho Mokoena, Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thapelo Maseko, Evidence Makgopa
Canada: Maxime Crepeau, Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea, Stephen Eustaquio, Nathan Saliba, Liam Millar, Tajon Buchanan, Jonathan David, Tani Oluwaseyi
