---
title: "Canada and South Africa Kick Off World Cup Knockout Stage at SoFi Stadium"
url: https://www.herecharleston.com/2026/06/28/canada-south-africa-kick-world-cup/
date: 2026-06-28T22:04:16+00:00
modified: 2026-06-28T22:04:16+00:00
author: "Sherri Kumar"
categories: ["Sports"]
site: "HERE Charleston"
attribution: "HERE Charleston"
---

# Canada and South Africa Kick Off World Cup Knockout Stage at SoFi Stadium

*Source: [HERE Charleston](https://www.herecharleston.com/2026/06/28/canada-south-africa-kick-world-cup/) — June 28, 2026 by Sherri Kumar*

Canada and South Africa will face off on Sunday in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, with the game scheduled to take place at SoFi Stadium in the Los Angeles area.

This fixture marks the beginning of the knockout stage of the tournament, where teams will compete in single-elimination matches to advance toward the final. The stakes are elevated, as any loss means immediate elimination from the competition.

Independent match guides have indicated a 3 p.m. Eastern Time kickoff for viewers in the United States. These guides also provide information on television and streaming services that will carry the match, allowing fans to follow the action.

The World Cup, a quadrennial international football competition contested by senior men’s national teams of the member associations of FIFA, has captivated global audiences. This year’s tournament has progressed through a group stage, culminating in this 32-team knockout bracket.

For fans in Charleston, the match offers an opportunity to follow international soccer at its highest level. While the game is being played on the West Coast, broadcast networks will make it accessible to a nationwide audience.

Details regarding specific broadcast channels and streaming platforms can be found through various sports media outlets that cover the tournament. These resources typically outline which games are available on which services, catering to different viewing preferences.

The progression into the knockout rounds signifies a shift in the tournament’s intensity. Each match from this point forward carries the weight of potential elimination, making every goal and every save critical.

Canada’s appearance in this stage of the competition highlights their efforts throughout the group phase. Similarly, South Africa’s advancement demonstrates their capability to compete against international rivals.

The venue, SoFi Stadium, is a modern facility known for hosting major sporting and entertainment events, providing a significant backdrop for this crucial World Cup encounter.

Fans seeking to watch the match will need to consult their local listings or sports broadcasting schedules to confirm availability on their preferred platforms. The 3 p.m. ET start time is a key piece of information for planning viewing around other Sunday activities.

Why it matters in Charleston:

For residents of Charleston who follow international soccer, the World Cup knockout stage provides a focal point for sports engagement. The availability of matches through broadcast and streaming services ensures that fans across the city can follow the tournament’s progression. The specific kickoff time of 3 p.m. ET for the Canada-South Africa match allows for viewing opportunities, whether during a late afternoon break or as a primary focus for the day. This global event, accessible through local viewing options, connects Charleston to the wider international sports community, offering a shared experience for enthusiasts of the sport.