South Africa advances to 2026 World Cup round of 16, will face Canada
via SeneNews1 min read
South Africa has made history by qualifying for the round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup for the first time ever. The Bafana Bafana secured their spot after a decisive 1-0 victory against South Korea on June 25, 2026. The winning goal was scored by Maseko in the 63rd minute. This marks South Africa's progression beyond the first round in their fourth World Cup appearance, following participations in 1998, 2002, and 2010. South Africa finished second in Group A with 4 points, behind Mexico, who topped the group with 9 points after defeating the Czech Republic 3-0. The Bafana Bafana are now set to face Canada in the round of 16. Canada finished second in Group B with 4 points. This upcoming match will be South Africa's second confrontation with a host nation in this tournament, having previously lost 0-2 to Mexico in the group stage.
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Graham Arnold, the coach of Iraq, expressed confidence ahead of his team's decisive match against Senegal, the reigning African champions. Arnold stated that his team has "nothing to lose, but everything to gain" in this encounter, which is part of the third group stage match of the 2026 World Cup. The Australian coach highlighted his year of experience leading the Iraqi national team and praised the tactical discipline of his players. He emphasized that the team aims to make history for Iraq, as the country has not earned any points in a World Cup for 40 years. Arnold also noted this is his fourth World Cup as a coach, having previously participated in three editions with Australia, and commended the fantastic support from Iraqi fans.
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