Bafana Are Different - Ex-Man Utd Star Warns

Former Manchester United midfielder Park Ji-sung has warned South Korea that they need a clear attacking plan when they face South Africa, insisting they present a different challenge to any other team in Group A.

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Hugo Broos' side kept their hopes of progressing to the Round of 32 alive after battling to a 1-1 draw against Czechia, with Teboho Mokoena converting a late penalty to rescue a valuable point.

With one group-stage fixture remaining, South Africa still have everything to play for as they look to silence the critics who have questioned the team's performances following their opening two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Bafana Bafana will face South Korea in a high-stakes Group A showdown next Thursday, with qualification still up for grabs for both nations.

Ahead of the encounter, Park stressed that the Taegeuk Warriors cannot afford to approach South Africa in the same way they did against Mexico or Czechia.

"Ultimately, the group stage won't conclude until the third match," the former Queens Park Rangers midfielder said, according to JTBC News.

Despite acknowledging the challenge that awaits, the South Korean legend remains confident in his country's chances.

"With South Korea's strength, we are fully capable of winning.

"South Africa is a different type of team compared to the Czech Republic and Mexico, so we must clearly prepare how to attack them."

Meanwhile, South Korean broadcaster Bae Seong-jae emphasised that qualification remains firmly within reach for several teams despite Mexico already securing top spot in the group.

The co-hosts booked their place in the knockout rounds after defeating South Korea, but the battle for the remaining qualification places remains intense.

"Although Mexico has secured first place in the group, South Korea, the Czech Republic, and South Africa are still competing for rankings," Bae said.

"We must defeat South Africa and advance to the tournament."

For South Africa, the final group-stage encounter presents an opportunity to not only keep their World Cup run alive but also answer the criticism that has followed the team since the tournament began.

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Having shown significant improvement in the second half against Czechia, Broos and his players will now be hoping to produce their strongest performance yet when they take on South Korea in what promises to be a decisive battle for progression.