Bafana Bafana need nothing less than victory against South Korea to guarantee their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A win on Thursday would see Hugo Broos’ men progress beyond the group stage of a World Cup for the first time in their history.
Heading into the decisive Group A encounter, South Africa sit bottom of the standings with just one point. Their 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic kept their hopes alive after a difficult start to the tournament.
What if Bafana don’t beat South Korea in their final World Cup group match?
A draw against South Korea would not necessarily spell the end of South Africa’s World Cup journey, but it would leave their fate hanging by a thread.
For Bafana to have any chance of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams, they would need several results from other groups to go in their favour.
Firstly, Mexico would need to defeat the Czech Republic, ensuring South Africa finish third in Group A. If that happens, attention would then turn to results elsewhere as Bafana hope to sneak into the last 32.
In Group D, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Qatar face off in a crucial battle for third place. Both teams are currently on one point, and a winner would likely move ahead of South Africa in the rankings. A draw, however, would suit Bafana as it could eliminate both sides from contention.
Bafana’s World Cup hopes might depend on other team
Group E could also play a significant role. Bafana will be hoping Germany beat Ecuador, while Ivory Coast avoid defeat against Curacao.
Those results would prevent either Ecuador or Curacao from strengthening their claims as one of the best third-placed teams.
In Group G, Egypt have already secured qualification, but a convincing victory over Iran would further boost South Africa’s chances. Belgium are favourites against New Zealand, although a shock result would also work in Bafana’s favour.
Meanwhile, in Group H, Spain need to beat Uruguay by at least two goals, while Cape Verde must avoid defeat in their final group match. Bafana will no doubt look to Spain and Cape Verde to save their World Cup.
Finally, in Group I, a draw between Senegal and Iraq would be the ideal outcome for South Africa as they look to remain among the strongest third-placed sides.
While qualification remains possible with a draw, the equation is simple for Bafana Bafana: beat South Korea and avoid relying on favours from elsewhere.