The eighth day of play at the 2026 World Cup begins tomorrow, with teams starting the second round of group matches. The slate includes Czech Republic vs. South Africa, Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada vs. Qatar, and Mexico vs. South Korea.
Czech Republic and South Africa both lost their openers. The Czechs fell 2-1 to South Korea, while South Africa was beaten 2-0 by Mexico. Czech coach Miroslav Koubek is not expected to make major changes, but South Africa will have to replace at least two players suspended from the first round.
Switzerland and Bosnia and Herzegovina each have one point, making their match potentially decisive in the race for the next stage. Johan Manzambi, who did not start the first game, could enter the Swiss lineup. On the other side, Edin Dzeko has returned to training, but it is still unclear whether he can play. The report says four points are expected to be enough in 98% of cases to secure qualification, so the winner would move very close to advancing.
Canada comes in after a promising performance against Bosnia and Herzegovina that ended in a draw because of too many missed chances, while Qatar drew Switzerland in stoppage time in a major surprise. The biggest question for Canada remains Alphonso Davies, whose availability is still uncertain. Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui is pleased with his team’s opening display and is not expected to change his lineup. In the final match, Mexico and South Korea both won their first games and are expected to keep changes limited. Mexico will be without suspended Cesar Montes, who is set to be replaced by Edson Alvarez, while right back Israel Reyes is also expected to drop to the bench for Jorge Sanchez. South Korea coach Myung-bo Hong is satisfied with the start and is expected to field the same lineup.
