Will Alphonso Davies Start in Canada’s Round of 16 World Cup Match?

Alphonso Davies featured for the first time at the World Cup, coming off the bench in the 75th minute in the 1-0 victory over South Africa. 

It was the Bayern Munich star’s first taste of action since injuring his hamstring against PSG in the Champions League on May 6. 

The question on every fan’s mind is whether he will start for Canada’s Round of 16 match. 

Related: Canada vs. Morocco Prediction, Odds, & Best Bets: World Cup 2026 

World Cup 2026: Will Alphonso Davies Start in the Round of 16 Match?

Canada’s soccer odds at the BetMGM online sportsbook improved from +12500 to +10000 after deservedly beating South Africa in the Round of 32. 

Les Rouges has advanced to the Round of 16 for the first time, and it accomplished the admirable feat without its only superstar, at least for the most part.

Davies’ first on-field contribution came in South Africa when he replaced Tajon Buchanan in the 75th minute.

While he made a few pinpoint passes and is clearly a level above most, he was slightly off the pace at times. That’s understandable considering the length of his injury layoff. 

Under ordinary circumstances, I’d say that Davies would be utilized off the bench in one or two more games before recapturing his starting spot. 

However, Saturday’s game represents extraordinary circumstances, uncharted territory for Canada. 

I’d be shocked if Davies doesn’t start for the country’s most important soccer occasion.

He wouldn’t have been utilized against South Africa if he weren’t healthy, and while he won’t be at his sharpest, Davies is too important, especially at this stage, not to be among the starting 11. 

He’ll likely only last 60 minutes or so, but considering the uptick in the level of the opponent, that is a better alternative than coming in off the bench. 

World Cup Betting Odds 2026