South Korea's World Cup hopes hinge on other results after loss to South Africa

South Korea's men's national football team faces an uncertain path to the 2026 World Cup after a frustrating 0-1 defeat against South Africa in their final group stage match. The loss, which occurred on June 25 (KST) in Monterrey, Mexico, placed the team third in Group A with three points, a single win and two losses.

Despite dominating possession with 61% in the first half, the South Korean team struggled to assert control, with South Africa creating more dangerous opportunities. The decisive goal came in the 63rd minute from South Africa's Tshepo Masileko, effectively dampening South Korea's hopes. Coach Hong Myung-bo attempted to inject urgency by bringing on Son Heung-min and Jens Castrop in the second half, followed by Cho Gue-sung after conceding, but the team's passing faltered, and crosses failed to penetrate South Africa's strong defense.

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I take responsibility as the coach for the fact that we did our best until the end, but the result is disappointing.

This defeat continues a worrying trend for South Korea, as they have not defeated an African opponent in the World Cup since 2006. Coach Hong Myung-bo acknowledged his responsibility for the outcome, stating, "I take responsibility as the coach for the fact that we did our best until the end, but the result is disappointing." He also noted that key player Kim Min-jae was substituted due to a calf injury.

With their fate now dependent on the performance of other teams, South Korea must hope to be among the eight best third-placed teams out of twelve to advance to the Round of 32. Meanwhile, South Africa secured second place in the group and advanced to the next stage, where they will face Canada. Mexico topped the group after defeating Czech Republic 3-0.

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He had a slight calf injury, so we took him off.