Lackluster S. Korea Suffers Embarrassing 0-1 Loss to S. Africa
By Reuters | 25 Jun, 2026

Now the Reds must wait until Saturday results to see if they've made the top 8 among 3rd-place teams.

South Korea's Son Heung-min during a June 16, 2026 press conference REUTERS/Paul Childs (Reuters Photo)

South Korea suffered a stunning 1-0 defeat to South Africa in their World Cup Group A finale in Monterrey, a result made all the more dramatic by coach Hong Myung-bo's decision to drop captain Son Heung-min from the starting lineup for the first time in the LAFC forward's entire international career.

Thapelo Maseko's 63rd-minute goal via a Moremi cross proved the only difference as South Africa advanced to the knockout round for the first time in their history. Son came on at halftime but could not change the outcome.

South Korea, who dominated possession at 68.4 percent and generated just 1 xG, must now wait on results from other groups to determine whether their three points are enough to advance as one of the eight best third-place teams expanded 48-team tournament. Coach Hong shouldered full blame in his post-match press conference.