🗣️ '...we have Alphonso back' Marsch previews Canada's knockout tie

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It has been a tournament of highs and lows for the Canadian Men's National Team in their first time hosting the FIFA World Cup. Canada has experienced a heartbreaking injury to Ismaël Koné, a Jonathan David hat-trick, a first-ever men's World Cup victory (winning 6-0), and a first-ever knockout stage birth at the men's World Cup. Now, Jesse Marsch's side will become the first-ever World Cup host nation to play an 'away' match when they face South Africa in the Round of 32 at Los Angeles Stadium. Canada was initially expected to face Korea Republic in LA, but following a surprise victory over the Koreans, South Africa leapfrogged their opponents to secure second place in Group A. Marsch, however, is not taking them lightly. "We're expecting South Africa to be very intensive, to have a fast start, to be excited and spirited for this match," Marsch said in his pre-match press conference. "[South Africa] stayed strong in the tournament and found a way to get better as they've gone on." Canada's head coach anticipates a "physical" test against this Bafana Bafana team, which could challenge star man Alphonso Davies, who has yet to play a minute in the tournament due to a hamstring injury. Marsch had previously stated that Davies would be available for Canada's second two group matches but later admitted he was merely using Davies as a "decoy" for Canada's opponents. After several decoy updates, Davies smiled and laughed when a reporter asked Marsch if he would start against South Africa, although the coach insisted his captain was ready to go. "Now that we have Alphonso back and healthy, and ready to perform, I think it's a big moment for the team and a big boost for the team."

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