Alphonso Davies is back: The FC Bayern left back made his comeback after more than a month on the sidelines due to injury and was immediately able to celebrate Canada’s advancement to the World Cup round of 16.
Alphonso Davies had two reasons to celebrate in the World Cup round of 32. The Bayern star returned to the field for the first time since suffering a muscle injury in his left hamstring and helped Canada advance to the Round of 16 with a late 1-0 victory over South Africa.
Davies hadn’t played in a competitive match since mid-May and had to sit out Canada’s first three World Cup games due to injury. Against South Africa, the 25-year-old was not in the starting lineup, but was brought on as a substitute by national team coach Jesse Marsch in the 75th minute, marking his long-awaited comeback.
Canada celebrates a late spot in the Round of 16
For long stretches, the co-hosts struggled against a defensively minded South African side. Canada failed to capitalize on several good chances and had to wait until deep into stoppage time for the decisive goal.
Then Stephen Eustaquio struck: The midfielder scored the much-celebrated 1-0 winning goal in the 92nd minute with a spectacular volley from about 16 meters out.
Davies made an immediate impact after coming on as a substitute and immediately initiated a dangerous attacking move. For the Bayern Munich pro, the successful comeback from injury was likely just as important as advancing to the next round.
In the Round of 16, Canada will now face the winner of the match between the Netherlands and Morocco.
From a German perspective, this matchup remains intriguing: If the DFB team reaches the quarterfinals, Canada could be a potential opponent there.
For FC Bayern, the good news is that Davies is back in action after his injury layoff.