Bafana handed possible advantage as Korean star goes cold before WC

One of Bafana Bafana's opponents at the 2026 FIFA World Cup appears to be growing concerned about the form of their star player, widely regarded as the face of the national team.

Son Heung-min has become a major talking point ahead of the tournament, with the South Korean captain struggling to rediscover his scoring touch at club level.

READ: Ex-Pirates coach claims another trophy abroad

South Korea have been drawn in Group A alongside Mexico, Czech Republic, and South Africa in what looks set to be a difficult group.

The Asian side will open their campaign against the Czech Republic before facing Mexico, and will then wrap up the group stage against Hugo Broos' Bafana.

Now playing for Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer, the former Tottenham Hotspur star has gone through a difficult run in front of goal.

Despite his reputation as one of Asia's biggest football stars, Son has not looked as sharp at LAFC as many fans had expected.

In 10 appearances this season, the 33-year-old has managed eight assists but is still searching for his first goal of the 2026 campaign, something that has started to raise concern in South Korea ahead of the World Cup.

Korean publication ChosunBiz is amongst the outlets that have highlighted Son's dip in form, with the attacker still seen as the key figure in Hong Myung-bo's squad.

READ: Bafana next coach? Benni sets record straight

With the World Cup drawing closer, South Koreans will be hoping their captain can rediscover his finishing touch in time for the tournament.

For Bafana, Mexico, and the Czech Republic, however, Son's struggles could offer a bit of encouragement heading into the group stage. The World Cup is set to kick off on June 11, with Bafana opening their campaign against Mexico.