South Korea aims for crucial point against South Africa in World Cup

The Guardian Sport2 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 4:00 AM

Last updated Jun 24, 2026

South Korea aims for crucial point against South Africa in World Cup
Summary

South Korea faces South Africa in their final Group A match at the World Cup on June 24. A draw is sufficient for the Taegeuk Warriors to advance, while a win guarantees progression. Following a 1-0 defeat to Mexico sparked by a goalkeeper error, the team seeks to rebound and secure their place in the knockout stage. South Korea's Son Heung-min, amid off-field distractions, has been the center of attention as the squad navigates these challenges.

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By the Numbers
  • South Korea's match against South Africa is on June 24.
  • A draw will allow South Korea to progress to the next round.
  • They suffered a 1-0 loss to Mexico in their previous game.
  • Son Heung-min remains a prominent figure despite off-field issues.
  • Kim Seung-gyu's mistake led to the defeat against Mexico.
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  • 4:00 AMThe Guardian SportSon mocked over military service and a drone shot down – will South Korea get chaotic World Cup back on track?
What they're saying
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Hong Myung-bo’s squad has had to deal with issues off the pitch but a point against South Africa is enough to progress The tacos that Son Heung-min ate were reportedly of the Al Pastor and Arrachera variety. The former Tottenham forward was mobbed after taking an Uber from South Korea’s training camp, perhaps the most-talked about base at this World Cup tournament, to downtown Guadalajara. The crowds were another signal, if any were needed, of the forward’s global popularity, though the online advice was that he should have gone to a better restaurant. And he could do with better service too, as demonstrated by the 1-0 defeat against Mexico in the second game of Group A. The forward, who turns 34 before the quarter-final stage, was feeding off scraps as the Taegeuk Warriors played passively for a draw until a big error from Kim Seung-gyu – the goalkeeper was another taco muncher – gave the co‑hosts a goal from nowhere and a first place in the round of 32. For Korea, facing South Africa in the final game, a win would be great, a draw would be enough for second but defeat would mean either the lottery of third place or even a slip into fourth and guaranteed elimination. Continue reading...

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