What Bafana need to do to book their ticket into the Round of 32

Bafana Bafana can secure a spot in the Round of 32 of the Fifa World Cup with a draw or win against South Korea, depending on Czechia’s result against Mexico. Seen here: Thapelo Maseko of South Africa reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match between Czechia and South Africa at Atlanta Stadium on June 18, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. Picture: Lars Baron/Getty Images/AFP

Two matches into their first Fifa World Cup appearance since 2010, Bafana Bafana have given us a much clearer picture of where they stand on football’s biggest stage, and a place in the knockout rounds remains within reach with one group game remaining.

The good news is that qualification for the Round of 32 is still possible. The bad news is that the version of Bafana that topped their qualifying group has yet to arrive in the United States.

While a draw against Czechia was less than ideal, all is not lost.

Bafana remain bottom of Group A with a goal difference of minus two. They are level on points with Czechia, who have a superior goal difference of minus one. South Korea sit second on three points, while Mexico top the group on six points.