South Africa and South Korea take the field this Wednesday, June 24, at 10pm (Brasília time), at the BBVA Stadium, in Monterrey, Mexico, for the third and final round of Group A of the 2026 World Cup. The direct confrontation puts the two teams’ chances of advancement at stake, with Mexico already classified in first place.
Bafana Bafana arrives with just one point, after a defeat to Mexico and a draw with Czechia. To stay alive, the African team needs to win and still hope for parallel results that allow a place among the best third-placed teams in the expanded format of the tournament.
Predicted lineup and important absences
Hugo Broos should send a 4-3-3 formation onto the field with Ronwen Williams in goal; Khuliso Mudau, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Ime Okon and Aubrey Modiba in defense; Thalente Mbatha, Jayden Adams and Sphephelo Sithole in the middle; and Thapelo Maseko, Oswin Appollis and another striker up front. Teboho Mokoena and Themba Zwane are serving suspensions, but Sithole’s return strengthens the creative sector.
On the Korean side, Hong Myung-bo has Kim Seung-gyu in goal, Kim Min-jae in defense and the talent of Son Heung-min in attack. The 3-4-2-1 formation or variations with Lee Kang-in and Lee Jae-sung should prioritize possession control and quick transitions. Korea has three points and can guarantee their place with a draw, depending on the other scores.
South African pressure and Asian strength
South Africa is experiencing a moment of high national motivation. Coach Pitso Mosimane highlighted the fighting spirit, while the government encouraged the population to wear the national team’s shirt. Memes and support on the networks show the country united by the dream of repeating the good 2010 campaign at home, when it reached the round of 16.
South Korea, in turn, brings experience from recent World Cups and Son’s eye for goal. The Asian team beat Czechia and lost to Mexico, demonstrating consistency. The history of clashes favors the Asians, who seek to advance with defensive solidity and efficiency in counterattacks.
What changes with the result
A victory for South Africa could complicate the Group A scenario and open up an unprecedented path for the African continent in the knockout stages. Korea, with a greater squad and individual quality, appears as favorites at the bookmakers, but needs to avoid surprises against the physical momentum of Bafana Bafana. The simultaneous game with Mexico x Czechia makes the round even more dramatic.
Where to watch live
The duel will be broadcast live on TV Globo, SporTV and streaming platforms with rights in Brazil. Also follow real-time updates on specialized portals.