Canada is facing an unprecedented situation in the World Cup as the knockout rounds begin. The team will take on South Africa in a game outside of its own territory, marking the first time a host nation will play a win-or-go-home game outside its own country.
Background
The situation arose after Canada finished second in Group B and was sent to play in the Round of 32 match against South Africa at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. This is a significant departure from the usual practice of hosting knockout games in the host nation’s own territory.
The Canadian team will look to make the best of the situation and secure a win against South Africa. However, even if they emerge victorious, they will not return to Canada for their next game, as their path now runs solely through US-based stadiums.
Historic Context
This is not the first time that the World Cup has seen unusual circumstances. In 2002, South Korea and Japan co-hosted the tournament, but they did not face similar situations. The 2030 World Cup, which will be the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup, is expected to see a significant amount of global travel, with celebratory matches held in South America and the proper hosts of the tournament in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
