South Korea's World Cup hopes hang in the balance after a 0-1 defeat to South Africa in their final Group A match on June 25, 2026, at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico.
The loss left South Korea in third place with three points from one win and two losses, while South Africa advanced with four points.
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Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal in the 63rd minute, sliding a left-footed shot past goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu after receiving a cross.
Head coach Hong Myung-bo benched captain Son Heung-min, giving Oh Hyeon-gyu his first World Cup start.
In the second half, Hong brought on Son and German-born midfielder Jens Castrop, but the team could not break through South Africa's defense.
Before the match, former national team goalkeeper Kim Young-gwang analyzed South Africa's strengths on his YouTube channel, warning about individual talents like goalkeeper Williams and forward Iqraam Rayners.
Kim also noted weaknesses in South Africa's defense, suggesting early crosses could create opportunities.
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He expressed doubt about Hong using an untested fullback pairing of Kim Moon-hwan and Jens Castrop in such a crucial game.
Castrop's inclusion in the squad drew interest due to his heritage. His mother, An Soo-yeon, told MBC News that Castrop has "100% South Korean blood."
Castrop himself said he wanted to play more than 45 minutes and prove his abilities.
After the final whistle, the crowd of over 51,000 booed South Korea's performance.
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The team now must wait for results from other groups to see if they advance to the round of 32.
