World Cup

South Africa

25 Jun 2026 02:00

Korea Republic

Prediction:

Away win 1.67

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South Africa vs Korea Republic Predictions, Picks & Odds – 25/06/2026

World Cup · 3

Our prediction

2: Korea Republic to win

1.67 on Betfred · Confidence Medium

Odds recorded on 23 Jun 2026 at 06:22 · Odds are subject to change

South Africa vs Korea Republic Preview

South Africa return to the World Cup stage for the first time in sixteen years, yet their recent form offers little cause for optimism. Bafana Bafana have managed just one draw and three defeats across their last four outings, sitting third in Group A. The suspension of creative midfielder Themba Zwane for the remainder of the group stage compounds their difficulties, while coach Hugo Broos, who has confirmed he will step down after the tournament, must find fresh solutions quickly.

Korea Republic opened their campaign with a spirited 2-1 comeback victory over Czechia, reinforcing their credentials as serious contenders to progress from Group A. The Taeguk Warriors had won three consecutive matches before two defeats checked their momentum, but that opening-day result steadied the ship. Son Heung-min remains the focal point of an attack brimming with quality, and manager Hong Myung-bo's tactical flexibility, shifting between a back three and more conventional formations, gives his side useful adaptability.

Korea Republic's credentials stand out clearly in this Group A contest. The Taegeuk Warriors opened their campaign with a composed 2-1 comeback victory over Czechia, demonstrating resilience and quality in equal measure. Their recent run of form before that defeat showed four wins in five outings, and Son Heung-min's leadership remains a decisive factor at this level despite off-pitch distractions surrounding the squad.

Bafana Bafana, by contrast, have won just one of their last four matches, alternating between losses and draws in a sequence that inspires little confidence. The suspension of Themba Zwane strips Hugo Broos of a key creative outlet for the remainder of the group stage, compounding problems for a side already struggling to find rhythm. South Africa's World Cup pedigree is thin, having never advanced beyond the group phase.

The away win at 1.67 represents the value selection here. Korea Republic's structural advantages, from squad depth to tournament experience across eleven consecutive World Cup appearances, make them clear favourites. With South Africa weakened and Korea buoyed by their opening result, backing the Asian side looks well founded. The over 2.5 goals market at 2.00 also merits consideration given both sides' recent defensive vulnerabilities.

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Trends to Know about South Africa vs Korea Republic

• Korea Republic ranked 35 places higher globally
• South Africa winless in last four matches
• Korea won opening group match convincingly

Both lineups carry a speculated status, drawn from single sources published well ahead of kickoff, so some caution is warranted before treating either XI as settled. What is clear is that both sides appear to favour a 4-2-3-1 shape, setting up a mirror-image tactical contest in the group's decisive round.

For South Africa, Lyle Foster leads the line with Relebohile Mofokeng offering creativity behind him, while Korea Republic will lean heavily on Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in to unlock Bafana Bafana's defensive block. The double pivot battle in the centre of the pitch could prove the key axis of the match.

How to Watch South Africa vs Korea Republic Match?

What time is South Africa vs Korea Republic?

South Africa face Korea Republic at Estadio BBVA Bancomer on Wednesday 25 June 2026, with kickoff at 02:00 BST.

Where is South Africa vs Korea Republic being played?

This match takes place at the Estadio BBVA Bancomer in Monterrey, Mexico.

How Can I Watch South Africa vs Korea Republic on TV and Live Stream?

This fixture will be available to watch on BBC and ITV in the United Kingdom.