World Cup 2026: Hugo Broos insists South Africa must beat South Korea to keep qualification hopes alive

Head coach of South Africa Hugo Broos insists Bafana Bafana must beat South Korea to keep their knockout stage qualification hopes alive at the 2026 World Cup.

After two group games, the Bafana Bafana has managed just a draw and a defeat, undermining their chances of reaching the knockout phase of the competition.

Speaking after the sides 1-1 stalemate against Czech Republic at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Broos affirmed must beat Korea at all cost to book a place in the Round 32.

“It’s very good, we don’t have to count on someone else. We just have to win the game against South Korea, which will be very difficult,” he said.

Bafana Bafana’s qualification hopes at the 2026 FIFA World Cup depend entirely on their final group match against South Korea national football team.

The Belgian coach made it clear that, while the draw against Czechia was a positive step and a morale boost after the opening defeat to Mexico, it leaves no margin for calculation going forward. South Africa must take maximum points in their final fixture if they are to progress.

Broos admitted the Czech Republic posed a difficult tactical challenge, pointing to their physical presence and direct style of play. He suggested that his side often struggled with the aerial dominance and long-ball approach, but still managed to compete and earn a valuable point.

Despite those challenges, the coach remained satisfied with his team’s response after going behind early in the match. South Africa showed resilience, gradually growing into the game before eventually finding an equaliser through Teboho Mokoena from the penalty spot.

For Broos, that fightback was further evidence that his team is developing the mentality required at this level. However, he was equally honest about the mistakes that continue to cost them in key moments, particularly early in matches.

Now attention shifts fully to the decisive meeting with South Korea, a match that will define South Africa’s tournament fate. Broos is under no illusions about the difficulty of the task, stressing that his side will need a near-perfect performance to secure victory.

South Korea’s pace, organisation and technical quality are expected to present a very different challenge compared to the physical battle against Czech, forcing Bafana Bafana to adapt both tactically and mentally.

Still, Broos’ message remains consistent: there is no reliance on other results, no calculations, and no safety net. It is a straight fight for qualification.Win, or risk an early exit from the 2026 World Cup.