South Korea Hub
Can South Korea national football team get the 4th tournament ticket?
The South Korea national football team will face South Africa in the final group stage match of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup. A draw would secure second place and a tournament spot. Coach Hong Myung-bo's team is aiming for their 4th tournament appearance.
The match against South Africa is crucial
South Korea won 2-1 against the Czech Republic in the first match, but lost 0-1 to Mexico in the second match, earning 3 points with 1 win and 1 loss. South Africa lost 0-2 to Mexico in the first match, but drew 1-1 with the Czech Republic in the second match, earning 1 point with 1 draw and 1 loss.
A draw would be enough for South Korea to advance to the next round
Even if the Czech Republic beats Mexico and ties with South Korea's record, South Korea would still advance to the next round due to the 'winner-takes-all' rule. Of course, a win would guarantee second place.
Beating South Africa is the best option
South Korea has a good record in the final group stage matches, with 3 wins, 2 draws, and 5 losses in 10 matches. They won their last two matches.
| Tournament | Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Russia World Cup | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 |
| 2022 Qatar World Cup | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
