South Africa vs South Korea: FIFA World Cup 2026 Predicted Lineups

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A is set for a thrilling conclusion as South Africa take on South Korea on Thursday, June 25, at 6:30 AM IST. This do-or-die fixture, held at Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe, Mexico, will determine which of these two teams progresses to the knockout stages. South Africa must secure a victory to have any chance of advancing, while a draw would be enough for South Korea to guarantee their spot in the Round of 32. Who is Nana Kwaku Bonsam? Know About Viral Ghanaian Witch Doctor Trending After Harry Kane's Poor Show In England vs Ghana FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw.

South Africa Predicted Lineup and Team News

Bafana Bafana, coached by Hugo Broos, are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation for this critical match. They will be without key midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who is suspended due to accumulated bookings, and Themba Zwane, serving a three-match ban for violent conduct from Matchday 1. Yaya Sithole, however, returns from his one-game suspension and is likely to feature in midfield.

Predicted Starting XI (4-3-3):

Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Aubrey Modiba

Midfielders: Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole, Jayden Adams

Forwards: Thapelo Maseko, Oswin Appollis, Elias Rayners

South Africa enters this game having lost 2-0 to Mexico and managed a 1-1 draw against Czechia, thanks to an 83rd-minute penalty. Their attacking output has been a concern, failing to score from open play in their previous two group matches. Key players to watch for South Africa include captain Ronwen Williams in goal, defender Khuliso Mudau, and forward Oswin Appollis, who impressed in the last outing.

South Korea Predicted Lineup and Team News

The Taegeuk Warriors, led by Hong Myung-bo, are anticipated to adopt a 3-4-2-1 formation. South Korea boasts a clean bill of health with no reported injuries or suspensions, allowing their coach to field a strong side.

Predicted Starting XI (3-4-2-1):

Goalkeeper: Kim Seung-gyu

Defenders: Lee Han-beom, Kim Min-jae, Lee Gi-hyuk

Midfielders: Seol Young-woo, Hwang In-beom, Paik Seung-ho, Lee Tae-seok

Attacking Midfielders: Lee Kang-in, Lee Jae-sung

Forward: Son Heung-min

South Korea began their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Czechia, with goals from Hwang In-beom and Oh Hyeon-gyu, but then suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to co-hosts Mexico. They are currently ranked 25th in the world by FIFA, significantly higher than South Africa, who are ranked 60th. Star forward Son Heung-min has been uncharacteristically quiet in front of goal so far this tournament, but remains a constant threat. Defender Kim Min-jae and creative midfielder Lee Kang-in will also be crucial for their team's performance. France Coach Didier Deschamps to Miss FIFA World Cup 2026 Clash Against Norway Following Mother’s Death.

What's at Stake

This marks the first official competitive meeting between South Africa and South Korea. The winner of this encounter will secure a coveted spot in the Round of 32. For South Africa, only three points will suffice to keep their World Cup dream alive. South Korea, with three points from their first two games, needs only a draw to guarantee progression from Group A. The stakes couldn't be higher for both nations as they battle for advancement in the prestigious tournament.

Fans in India can catch all the action live on Zee5. This decisive Group A encounter promises to be a captivating contest as both nations battle for their World Cup survival and a place in the next round.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 24, 2026 10:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).