Canada made history by reaching the playoffs of the World Cup for the first time in history.
After a tough 2-1 loss to Switzerland in their final group stage game, the Canadian men’s soccer team finished second in Group B and earned a spot in the round of 16. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Canadian soccer and reflects the team’s significant growth on the world stage.
From navigating a challenging Group B to securing a playoff spot for the first time in program history, here are five storylines to watch as the CANMNT continues its march to the FIFA World Cup.
The CANMNT has already achieved a number of historic milestones at the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, including earning its first point and first-ever FIFA World Cup win. Now, as the team prepares for the playoffs, the group continues to break new ground. By securing a place in the round of 16, Canada has the opportunity to build on its outstanding success and further establish itself on the world stage.
Canada’s next challenge will be against South Africa, who also made history by exiting the group stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time, on Sunday, June 28 in Los Angeles, California. Both countries approach the knockout stages with confidence and energy, setting the stage for an exciting match. With a place in the last 16 on the line, fans can expect a highly competitive match between the two teams as they look to extend their journey to the FIFA World Cup.
Canada advances to the knockout stages after a group stage campaign marked by several key moments. Kyle Larin scored Canada’s crucial opening goal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup to secure a 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina and the team’s first point in tournament history, while Jonathan David scored a hat-trick against Qatar to lead Canada to a historic 6-0 victory. In all matches, the CANMNT demonstrated their attacking quality and resilience throughout the group stage under the leadership of head coach Jesse Marsh. That momentum now carries over into the knockout phase as Canada continues its 2026 FIFA World Cup™ campaign.
One of Canada’s defining strengths throughout the tournament was the contributions of all of the team’s players. From seasoned leaders to young talent, the CANMNT has consistently seen players step up at key moments to support the team’s goals. The group also showed strong unity in response to challenges along the way, including support from Ismael Kone following his injury as teammates and Canadians from coast to coast rallied behind him.
The knockout match represents another opportunity for the CANMNT to showcase the progress of Canadian soccer on the world stage. Throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, the team was supported by Canadians from coast to coast, with fans rallying behind the team on home soil. Although the round of 16 match against South Africa will be played in Los Angeles, Canada continues to receive strong support, reflecting the growing bond between the team and its fans throughout the tournament. The CANMNT continues its historic journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, supporting passionate fans both at home and on the road.
Watch CANMNT LIVE on TSN and RDS as Canada plays in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ Playoffs against South Africa on Sunday, June 28 at 12:00 pm PT/3:00 pm ET.