South Korea's Football Team Poised for Three-Back Formation Against South Africa

The South Korean men's national football team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, is widely expected to deploy a three-back formation in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa. This tactical choice is anticipated for the match scheduled for June 25 at the Monterrey Stadium in Nuevo León, Mexico.

South Korea currently sits with one win and one loss in their group stage. A draw in this match would be sufficient to secure their advancement to the Round of 32 as the second-place team. The team's FIFA ranking (24th) is significantly higher than South Africa's (61st), fueling expectations of a favorable outcome.

Various international sports media outlets have published their predictions for South Korea's lineup and formation. Sports Illustrated (USA) anticipates a 3-4-3 formation, featuring Kim Seung-gyu in goal, supported by a back three of Lee Ki-hyuk, Kim Min-jae, and Lee Han-beom. The midfield is projected to include Lee Tae-seok, Hwang In-beom, Baek Seung-ho, and Seol Young-woo, with Lee Jae-sung, Son Heung-min, and Lee Kang-in leading the attack.

Other outlets, like Sports Mole (UK), predict a 3-4-2-1 formation, with minor variations in the starting eleven, such as Kim Moon-hwan potentially replacing Lee Tae-seok. However, coach Hong Myung-bo himself hinted at changes, stating, "There will be changes in 2-3 starting players for the South Africa match tomorrow." The exact lineup will be confirmed an hour before kickoff.

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There will be changes in 2-3 starting players for the South Africa match tomorrow.