South Africa’s FIFA World Cup dream goes on the line on Thursday morning when Bafana Bafana take on Korea Republic in their final Group A fixture. Below we have a preview, the best bets and a prediction for this crucial Group A showdown.
ALSO READ: Mokoena Rescues Bafana Bafana Before Suspension Blow.
After opening the tournament with a defeat to Mexico before earning a valuable point against Czechia, South Africa remain in contention for a place in the knockout stages. However, Hugo Broos’ side now faces a Korea Republic team that has already defeated Czechia and pushed Mexico all the way in a narrow defeat.
With qualification potentially on the line for both teams, expect a tense and fiercely contested encounter.
Betting Preview
South Africa’s World Cup campaign has been a mixture of encouragement and frustration.
Bafana produced a spirited performance against Mexico despite losing 2-0 before showing tremendous character to fight back for a 1-1 draw against Czechia. Teboho Mokoena’s late penalty rescued a point and kept South Africa alive heading into the final round of fixtures.
The problem is that Mokoena will miss this match through suspension.
The midfielder has arguably been South Africa’s most influential player throughout qualification and the opening two matches of the tournament. His absence leaves a major hole in the heart of the Bafana midfield and places additional responsibility on players such as Relebohile Mofokeng and Jayden Adams.
3.80
South Africa vs Korea Republic
Draw
Match Result
Odds are subject to change.
Bet Here
Korea Republic, meanwhile, have quietly put together a strong tournament.
They defeated Czechia 2-1 in their opener before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Mexico in a match where they created several opportunities of their own. The Koreans remain one of Asia’s most tactically disciplined sides and possess plenty of attacking quality.
Much of their threat comes through captain Son Heung-min, whose pace, movement and finishing ability make him one of the most dangerous players in the competition.
South Africa will need to remain organised defensively while taking advantage of any opportunities that arise on the counter-attack.
Recent Form & Stats
South Africa
- Lost 2-0 to Mexico in their opening match.
- Drew 1-1 with Czechia after a late equaliser.
- Have scored one goal in two matches.
- Teboho Mokoena is suspended after picking up a yellow card against Czechia.
Korea Republic
- Defeated Czechia 2-1 in their opening fixture.
- Lost narrowly 1-0 to Mexico.
- Have taken three points from their opening two games.
Head-to-Head
These nations have faced each other several times in international football, with Korea Republic traditionally holding the stronger record. However, World Cup football often produces surprises, and South Africa will believe they can rise to the occasion.
Best Bets & Predictions
Prediction: Draw at 3.80.
Best Bet: Under 2.5 total goals at 1.75.
Alternative Bet: Korea Republic or draw at 1.18.
South Africa have already shown tremendous resilience at this tournament and still have a chance of reaching the knockout stages.
However, this is undoubtedly their toughest challenge yet.
The absence of Teboho Mokoena removes a key leader from the midfield, while Korea Republic have looked well organised and dangerous throughout the group stage.
Bafana will need a huge performance if they are to keep their World Cup dream alive.
