South Africa vs South Korea — World Cup 2026 Group · Matchday 3
Match preview / What to expect
Updated Jun 6, 2026South Africa face South Korea in a Group A decider that may shape who advances. Hugo Broos' Bafana Bafana, AFCON regulars again, will look to be compact and break quickly through their wide runners.
South Korea's hopes run through captain Son Heung-min and the creativity of Lee Kang-in, with Kim Min-jae marshalling the defence. Hong Myung-bo's side will expect to control possession.
The question is whether South Africa's organisation can blunt Korea's individual quality over 90 minutes.
Key storylines
- 01Son Heung-min leading Korea's bid to progress
- 02Broos' organised South Africa hunting a statement result
- 03Kim Min-jae vs South Africa's pacey forwards
Prediction
South Africa 1-2 South Korea
Projected lineups
Projected XI — not confirmedSouth Africa
Formation 4-3-3- 1R. Williams
- 2K. Mudau

