Winner goes through: South Africa-South Korea date

In the final 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A match, South Africa face South Korea at the Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe. A last-32 ticket is on the table for both; the winner will book their place. South Korea, even if beaten, could still keep their qualifying hopes alive by finishing third.

South Korea, under Hong Myung-bo, have exceeded expectations at the tournament. After beating Czechia 2-1 in their opener, the Taegeuk Warriors lost 1-0 to hosts Mexico in their second game; a goalkeeper error from Kim Seung-gyu opened the door for Luis Romo's only goal. Even so, Korea began the tournament well across 180 minutes. The team's biggest issue is wastefulness in attack: per Opta, Korea produced just 2 goals from 3.21 xG, and star Son Heung-min in particular failed to score despite 1.01 xG. But history suggests Son's barren run won't last long.

For South Africa, the picture is gloomier. Hugo Broos's side rescued a point against Czechia through Teboho Mokoena's 83rd-minute penalty after a poor opening-day showing. But Bafana Bafana go into this game with three notable absences: Yaya Sithole, sent off in the first game, returns after serving his ban, but Themba Zwane (three-match ban) and penalty hero Mokoena (suspended through bookings) cannot play. Only a win will do for South Africa.

According to SI's assessment, there is a clear quality gap between the two teams; South Korea, ranked 25th by FIFA, are 35 places above Bafana Bafana. With South Africa's desperate need for three points potentially leaving them open, a Korea side that presses from the front is expected to capitalise. Sports Illustrated predict South Korea will win 2-0. Even a draw would be enough for Korea to take second, even if Czechia topple Mexico at the Azteca. The match will be officiated by Argentine referee Facundo Tello.

Probable XIs
South Africa (4-3-3): Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mbatha, Sithole, Adams; Maseko, Appollis, Rayners
South Korea (3-4-2-1): S. Kim; H. Lee, M. Kim, G. Lee; Seol, I. Hwang, Paik, T. Lee; K. Lee, J. Lee; Son

Source: Sports Illustrated
Image: Sports Illustrated