Opponents Fooled by Clever Maneuver. Will We Finally See Canada's Biggest Star?

Canada finished second in Group B behind Switzerland, following a 1-1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina, a 6-0 victory over Qatar, and a 1-2 loss to Switzerland. Four points were also enough for South Africa to secure second place in Group A, after an initial 0-2 loss to Mexico, a 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic, and a 1-0 win over South Korea. These nations will meet at a competitive level for the first time. The winner will face the victor of the Netherlands-Morocco match in the Round of 16 on July 4th in Houston.

The biggest star for the "Maple Leafs" has yet to feature in the tournament. Coach Jesse Marsch stated that Alphonso Davies "is ready and will play," adding that it remains to be seen whether the Bayern Munich player will start. However, Marsch had also claimed before the match against Switzerland that Davies would be available, which ultimately proved untrue.

"Alphonso wasn't ready yet. I used him as a deceptive maneuver," Marsch admitted, according to DPA. The 25-year-old left-back missed out for Canada due to a muscle injury. "He is our captain and best player," the American coach continued, adding that Davies has "a fundamental impact, physically, with his playing style, and mentally." Canada also boasts a hat-trick scorer in their ranks, with Jonathan David shining against Qatar.

The "Bafana Bafana" believe they can go even further after their historic qualification. "I feel incredibly proud and grateful. We have made history. It wasn't easy, but I'm thrilled that we achieved it. Now we are focused on winning the next game. We know we can do it," said South African winger Tshepang Moremi, according to the tournament website, after the victory over South Korea.

His teammate Relebohile Mofokeng expressed similar confidence: "We will fight to go as far as possible. We truly believe in our abilities. South African football is progressing season after season. This generation is truly exceptional. I believe I am playing alongside some of the best players in the world. Their performances are outstanding. We just need to keep working hard to elevate our country higher on the global football map."