World Cup Predictions & Tips | Round of 32: South Africa v Canada

Match 73: South Africa v Canada
Location: Los Angeles Stadium
Time: 7:00am, Monday 29 June
Head to Head: South Africa (1), Canada Wins (0), Draws (0)

Key Stats

• First appearance in knockout stages for either nation
• Under 2.5 goals is 10-2 in Canada’s last 12 matches
• Under 2.5 goals is 5-0 in South Africa’s last 5 matches
• Canada have had 35 corners in three games played (11.7 per game)

Preview

All three co-hosts have made it through to the knockout stages including Canada. They went down 2-1 to Switzerland in the final group game and were outplayed in the first hour of the contest. The final 30 minutes was not the best indicator as the Swiss were able to sit on their lead. This time around, they will likely be the team who dominated possession.

South Africa needed all three points against South Korea to qualify for the knockout stages and delivered with a gritty 1-0 win. Maseko scored the only goal of the game and it was a reward for playing a positive brand of football. Sadly, they will likely go back into their shell as it has been their style of play for some time. There has been a total of only 7 goals scored across South Africa’s last 5 competitive matches which equates to an average of 1.4 goals per game.

This is the first time either nation has progressed to the knockout phase meaning inexperience and potential nerves could play a part. Canada will have the advantage of crowd support but this game is taking place in Los Angeles making this the first time they will play on foreign soil. The co-hosts have scored at least once in each of their last five games but if you leave out their 6-0 win over Qatar, they have averaged a mediocre 1.0 goals per game in their last 11. They have been excellent at getting the ball into wide areas, as indicated by 35 corners in 3 games (11.7 per game), but their supply will need to improve.

A stalemate after 90 minutes is a genuine possibility here – especially if scored are level approaching the final quarter of the match. A single goal from either nation will likely be enough to win the match in regulation but do not be shocked if this one goes all the way to a penalty shootout.

Player To Watch

Thapelo Maseko was outstanding in South Africa’s final group game and was the best player on the pitch by a country mile. He looked dangerous every time he go on the ball and is very elusive. Likes to stay wide right and cut in onto his left foot meaning the Canadian duo of Laryea and Cornelius will have to keep a very close eye on him. Hugo Broos made the mistake of not playing him against Mexico but he will be the focal point of their attack in this one.

Betting Tips

Best Bet: Under 2.5 goals ($1.67)
Other: Draw ($3.60)
Correct Score: Draw 0-0 ($9.75)
SGM: Both Teams To Score – NO, Under 1.5 goals, Maseko 1+ Shots