| The first known knockout round of this World Cup takes place without a tournament favorite. South Africa face Canada. For the first time in their national histories, both nations have progressed beyond the group stage of a World Cup finals. Both teams even avoided the path of the best third -placed teams, qualifying as the second-best team in their respective groups. This round of 32 match encapsulates much of what makes the new 48-team World Cup format so special. An African underdog , who, after a false start, red cards, and self-doubt, suddenly reaches the knockout stage for the first time in its history. On the other side is a co-host who electrified their country, but after their defeat against Switzerland, they must leave home. Instead of playing in Vancouver, the match will take place in Los Angeles. Two teams are battling it out, teams that don't want to be defined by possession, but by energy. By pace. By the feeling that football is sometimes less like chess and more like playing with heart. South Africa is coming to Los Angeles because Thapelo Maaseko had the moment of his life against South Korea. Canada is coming to Los Angeles because they appeared both mature and unsettled in the group stage. A chaotic game would likely suit Jesse Marsch's team better. |
