All is not lost for Bafana, here’s what they need to do, and pray for, to reach the Round of 32
iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/2026-06-13-all-is-not-lost-for-bafana-heres-what-they-need-to-do-and-pray-for-to-reach-the-round-of-32/
Photo: iol.co.za · view article
Bafana's Road to World Cup Round of 32South Africa must gain at least four points in two remaining games to keep hopes alive under the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup format.
Key FactsJun 13, 2026 · Reading time: ~30 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: iol.co.za
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: iol.co.za
- Bafana Bafana's 0-2 loss to Mexico did not eliminate them due to the tournament's larger 48-team structure allowing more teams to advance.
- Following South Korea's win over Czechia, South Africa sits bottom of Group A and needs strong results in upcoming matches to progress.
- Victories or draws against Czechia and South Korea are crucial, with tactical adjustments and suspended players returning expected to improve performance.
- Goal difference, currently minus two, could determine qualification as one of the top third-placed teams in the group stage.
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All is not lost for Bafana, here’s what they need to do, and pray for, to reach the Round of 32
iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/2026-06-13-all-is-not-lost-for-bafana-heres-what-they-need-to-do-and-pray-for-to-reach-the-round-of-32/
Coach Broos animated during Bafana’s training session after loss to Mexico: Bafana Bafana returned to training after their 2-0 loss to Mexico with coach Hugo ...
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Jun 12, 2026 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: bbc.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: bbc.com
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- Support for Mexico reflected anger over recent xenophobic violence and anti-migrant sentiment within South Africa.
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