![Jayden Adams. [TASS]](https://wimg.heraldcorp.com/news/cms/2026/06/23/rcv.YNA.20260612.PTA20260612021301009_P1.jpg)
South Africa expressed confidence ahead of their final 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage match against South Korea on Thursday, even as they prepare to do without a key midfielder.
Midfielder Jayden Adams said South Africa remained upbeat despite the suspension of Teboho Mokoena, according to South African outlet News24 on Monday.
"Without Mokoena it's going to be a very tough game," Adams said. "But we have to man up."
"I'm very, very confident that we can get a win against South Korea," he added. "The team spirit is very good after the Czech Republic game."
Winger Tapelo Maseko also expressed his determination to win, according to South African outlet The Citizen. "We have great coaches and analysts. We know what to do against South Korea, and we just need to execute," he said.
South Africa face a must-win scenario to advance to the round of 32: they need to beat South Korea and hope Group A leaders Mexico (6 points) are held by third-place Czech Republic (1 point). South Korea, coached by Hong Myung-bo, need only a draw to secure their place in the next round.
South Korea arrived in Monterrey on Monday and will hold a closed training session Tuesday before a final session Wednesday ahead of the match.
South Korea and South Africa meet Thursday at 10 a.m. Korean Standard Time at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico, in their Group A finale. South Korea sit second in the group with three points from one win and one loss, while South Africa are fourth with one point from one draw and one loss.
Lee Han-beom, South Africa match preview — 'Caution on space in behind'
South Korea defender Lee Han-beom (FC Midtjylland) vowed to shut down South Africa's pace and individual skill with organized defending ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
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