The World Cup action continues with two mouth-watering fixtures that promise drama from start to finish. South Africa will be looking to keep their fairytale alive against Canada, while Colombia and Portugal collide in a heavyweight showdown packed with attacking quality.

Whether you're backing an upset or expecting the favourites to deliver, Lucky Fish has picked out the best betting angles for both matches, coupled with value odds.

Best Bet

4/1 South Africa | Draw 23/10 | Canada 15/20 – Saturday, 28 June 2026 (21:00)

Prediction: Over 10.5 corners at 16/10

The first round of 32 will see South Africa take on Canada, with a place in the round of 16 at stake. This is a crucial encounter with no second chances, so both teams will need to bring their A-game. South Africa earned their place in the knockout stage after a strong finish to the group phase, while Canada progressed from Group B, setting up the first-ever World Cup knockout meeting between the two nations.

The hosts have looked more dangerous going forward throughout the tournament. Their attacking play has been quick and direct, highlighted by an emphatic 6–0 win over Qatar in the group stage. They also have experience playing high-intensity matches against strong opponents, which could prove valuable in a knockout game where small moments often decide the outcome.

South Africa, however, have shown impressive resilience. Bafana Bafana grew into the tournament and earned their place in the knockout stage through disciplined defending, strong teamwork, and timely goals. Their confidence has increased with each match, and they have demonstrated that they can compete against quality opposition.

One of Bafana Bafana’s biggest strengths is goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, whose shot-stopping ability could be crucial if Canada creates several scoring chances. In midfield, Teboho Mokoena and Sphephelo Sithole will be important in breaking up attacks and helping South Africa transition forward, while players such as Thapelo Maseko and Oswin Appollis could provide the pace needed to trouble Canada's defence. Canada, meanwhile, will look to attacking threats like Jonathan David, Tajon Buchanan, and Stephen Eustáquio to create and finish chances.

The first goal could have a major influence on the match. If South Africa scores first, they are capable of defending their lead with discipline and making life difficult for Canada. If Canada scores first, their quality in possession and attacking depth could allow them to control the game and force South Africa to take more risks.

Overall, I expect a competitive and entertaining contest. Canada has a slight edge because of their attacking quality and experience, but South Africa has shown enough determination and defensive organisation to make an upset entirely possible. Although this is one of the knockout matches where the margin between the teams appears particularly small.

Value Bet

33/10 Columbia | Draw 47/20 | Portugal 17/20 – Sunday, 28 June 2026 (01:30)

Prediction: Draw at 47/20

A highly contested encounter will be on the card on Sunday morning when a European giant meets a South American powerhouse in a battle for top spot. Columbia currently holds the advantage, having collected maximum points in their opening two matches, while Portugal dropped points against DRC but bounced back against Uzbekistan.

The Group K clash between Colombia and Portugal features a clear contrast in styles: Colombia’s compact, counterattacking approach against Portugal’s possession-based, technical system. Both sides have started strongly, making this match important for final group standings and momentum into the knockout stage.

Colombia come in with solid defensive organisation and efficient transitions. They rarely dominate possession but are dangerous on the break, especially through Luis Díaz’s pace and dribbling. James Rodríguez adds creativity in midfield, while players like Daniel Muñoz provide unexpected attacking width. Their defensive record has also been strong, limiting chances across the group stage.

Portugal relies on structured possession and sustained attacking pressure to control matches. Cristiano Ronaldo remains a key finishing threat, supported by Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva’s creativity in midfield. Rafael Leão and Pedro Neto add pace and directness on the wing, though Portugal can be exposed in transition when their full-backs push high.

A key battle will be Colombia’s counterattacks against Portugal’s high defensive line, with space likely opening up for Díaz. The midfield duel between James Rodríguez and Bruno Fernandes could shape the game’s tempo, while wide areas, especially Díaz against Portugal’s right side, may decide key moments.

Overall, it’s a clash of control versus efficiency. Portugal have greater depth and technical quality, but Colombia’s structure and counterattacking threat make them dangerous. The first goal could be decisive: Portugal scoring early would likely bring control, while a Colombian lead could turn the match into a tight, uncomfortable contest for the Europeans.

Both at 8/1 – Get back R800 for R100 stake

Click here to place the bet on both or use the betting Code: 489060

Weekend Treble

Cape Verde to beat Saudi Arabia at 33/20

Egypt to beat Iran at 15/10

Austria to beat Algeria at 18/10

To win at 18/1 – Get Back R1 800 for R100 stake

Click here to place the bet or use the betting code: 489063

South Africa vs Canada & Colombia vs Portugal: Predictions, Odds and Best Bets

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