South Africa and South Korea are set for a decisive World Cup 2026 Group A showdown as both nations battle for a place in the knockout stages at Monterrey Stadium on Thursday.
Bafana Bafana head into the fixture knowing qualification remains within reach after recovering from a 2-0 defeat to Mexico with a valuable draw against the Czech Republic. Hugo Broos’s side will be hoping to produce their strongest performance of the tournament when it matters most.
South Korea, meanwhile, made an impressive start with victory over the Czech Republic but suffered a setback against group leaders Mexico. A goalkeeping error and a decisive strike from Luis Romo condemned the Taegeuk Warriors to defeat, leaving their qualification hopes hanging in the balance.
With a place in the knockout rounds at stake, both teams know that every moment could prove decisive in what promises to be a tense and fiercely contested encounter.
Team News
Hero in the last match, South Africa’s Mokoena is suspended after picking up his second yellow card of the World Cup versus the Czech Republic.
As a result, Bafana Bafana need to find a new partner for Thalente Mbatha in the middle of the park on Thursday morning.
Both taken off at the 57-minute mark versus the co-hosts, South Korea stars Son and Lee should start on Thursday morning.
Providing English Championship representation in the midfield of the Taegeuk Warriors, Paik Seung-Ho is set to be given the nod once again.
Possible Lineups
South Africa possible starting lineup:
Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mbatha, Sithole, Adams; Maseko, Appollis, Rayners
South Korea possible starting lineup:
S Kim; H Lee, M J Kim, G Lee; M H Kim, Hwang, Paik, Seol; K Lee, J Lee; Son
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV stream |
| Kick-off Time | 02:00 (WAT) |
Match predictions
Softfootball predicts South Africa 0-1 South Korea
