Here is the latest update from the ongoing FIFA World Cup as of 2026-06-28 01:00:00.
INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Canada’s Alphonso Davies is set to make his appearance during the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup 2026, as confirmed by coach Jesse Marsch on Saturday.
This time, Marsch’s assertion carries weight. He acknowledged relying on Davies as a strategic decoy throughout group play, causing rival teams to prepare for a player who was not yet ready due to a hamstring injury.
At SoFi Stadium, where Canada will face South Africa in the Round of 32, Marsch expressed optimism about Davies’ readiness. “Now that we have Alphonso back and healthy, it’s a big boost for the team,” he stated. “Most players who entered camp with minor injuries are now close to 100% and prepared to give their best.”
Marsch and Davies opted not to rush the recovery process, following multiple hamstring injuries over the last four months, including a setback during the Champions League semifinals. Although Davies was technically available for Canada’s recent matches, Marsch indicated that the subtle ruse was unnecessary moving forward.
“It was painful for me to tell our best player that we needed to wait,” said Marsch. “But we have prioritized Alphonso’s health and career, and now we can plan his return to the pitch.”
Davies scored Canada’s inaugural World Cup goal four years ago in Qatar and has long looked forward to his nation’s hosting opportunity. He expressed regret over missing all three home games in Toronto and Vancouver, even lobbying Marsch to allow him to play in their crucial loss to Switzerland last Wednesday.
“It was painful not to play,” Davies remarked. “Football is my passion. Watching the first game was tough, and by the third game, I pushed to get a few minutes. I appreciated Marsch’s care for me and the team.”
While Marsch has not declared whether Davies will start or what position he will play against South Africa, the match represents Canada’s third World Cup appearance. Their earlier loss to Switzerland forced the team to travel to Los Angeles for this round.
Davies has no concerns about returning to a field where he previously sustained a knee injury, stating, “It could have happened anywhere. I’m excited to finish what I started here.”
FAQs
Will Alphonso Davies start in the match against South Africa?
Marsch has not confirmed if Davies will start or how many minutes he will play.
What injury did Davies suffer prior to the World Cup?
Davies faced multiple hamstring injuries leading up to the tournament.
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-06-28 01:00:00
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Tags: #Canadas #Alphonso #Davies #ready #World #Cup #debut #decoy #role
Tags: #Canadas #Alphonso #Davies #ready #World #Cup #debut #decoy #role
