Soccer-Canada's Davies fit to face South Africa, says coach Marsch


Jun 24, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Canada defender Alphonso Davies (19) reacts after the game against Switzerland during a Group B match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup at BC Place Vancouver. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-Imagn Images

INGLEWOOD, California, June 27 (Reuters) - Canada's captain ⁠Alphonso Davies is fit for ‌Sunday's last-32 clash with South Africa, coach Jesse Marsch said.

He has been recovering from a ​hamstring injury picked up ⁠in Bayern Munich's ⁠Champions League semi-final with Paris Saint Germain.

"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," Marsch said on Saturday.

Davies wanted to get on the pitch ⁠in Canada's final Group ​B game against Switzerland, which they lost 2-1, but Marsch told the 25-year-old ⁠it was too early.

"It was hard to watch those three games," said Davies. "It was painful. The only thing ​you want to do ⁠is play."

Marsch said protecting Davies was ​his aim. "You have to ‌treat them (players) like they're ​Ferraris," he added.

(Reporting by Ed White; Editing by Ken Ferris)

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