Ex-Kaizer Chiefs forward predicts doom for Bafana – ‘I see nervousness in our players’

Football analyst Junior Khanye has expressed skepticism about Bafana Bafana’s ability to secure a victory in their crucial Group A match against South Korea, suggesting a draw is the best they can hope for.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup clash, set for Thursday morning South African time, is a must-win for South Africa. In contrast, second-placed South Korea only needs a draw to advance to the knockout stage.

South Africa’s challenge is compounded by the absence of key players. Influential midfielder Teboho Mokoena is suspended, while Themba “Mshishi” Zwane’s World Cup debut was cut short by an injury.

Ex-Chiefs star warns South Africa

In the other simultaneous Group A fixture, co-hosts Mexico will face the third-placed Czech Republic. Bafana Bafana must defeat South Korea to have any chance of progressing in the tournament.

“Honestly, it’s not going to be an easy game; this is a very big game,” Khanye told KickOff.

“Their performance against the Czech Republic was better compared to the first. But we are not at our best yet. I only see nervousness in our players. It won’t be easy against South Korea.”

What can Bafana get against S.Korea?

Khanye highlighted the strengths of the opposition, noting their intensity and individual talent.

“South Korea is strong, man; they are not a bad team. They play with high intensity,” he explained. “They have talented individuals like us. They defend very well, and when they attack, they are dangerous—players like Sonny are a threat. So, this game will end in a draw if Korea doesn’t win.”

The analyst delivered a blunt final verdict: “South Africa will never win this game. It’s going to be a 1-1 draw, or South Korea will win it.”