Alphonso Davies and his teammates celebrate Canada’s historic progression at the World Cup.
© Imago

World Cup round-up

Comeback: Alphonso Davies and Canada beat South Africa

A historic milestone and a comeback with a happy ending: Bayern's Alphonso Davies, who returned to the pitch for the first time since his muscle injury, and his Canadian teammates have become the first team at the World Cup to reach the round of 16. The Maple Leafs beat South Africa 1–0 in a scrappy match thanks to a goal in stoppage time. They'll now face the winner of the clash between the Netherlands and Morocco.

Alphonso Davies waves to the crowd

Alphonso Davies takes to the pitch for the first time at the World Cup

Alphonso Davies made his comeback following a muscle injury. | © Imago

Alphonso Davies takes to the pitch for the first time at the World Cup

Alphonso Davies waves to the crowd
Alphonso Davies made his comeback following a muscle injury. | © Imago

Although Canada coach Jesse Marsch had already announced his captain’s return in the run-up to the match, Bayern’s Alphonso Davies – who had missed every game so far due to a muscle injury – still started on the bench and witnessed a scrappy encounter with few chances in Los Angeles. Things only really came to life when Davies came on as a substitute after 75 minutes – and immediately injected some momentum into the game. However, Canada squandered two good chances set up by the German record champions' winger. Just when it looked as though the match was heading for extra time, a deflected ball fell at the feet of Stephen Eustaqio, who scored the golden goal with a volley from the edge of the box. Canada will now face either the Netherlands or Morocco at 19:00 CEST on Saturday. 

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann with Jamal Musiala and Leon Goretzka

Germany take on Paraguay on Monday evening

For Germany, featuring Jamal Musiala and Leon Goretzka, the knockout stage of the tournament starts today. | © Imago

Germany take on Paraguay on Monday evening

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann with Jamal Musiala and Leon Goretzka
For Germany, featuring Jamal Musiala and Leon Goretzka, the knockout stage of the tournament starts today. | © Imago

On Monday evening, Japan's Hiroki Ito and FC Bayern's German internationals will be in action. Whilst Germany face Paraguay at 22:30 CEST, Japan take on title favourites Brazil at 19:00 CEST.

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