Bafana Legend Confident Ahead Of Korea Clash

Mark Fish, a legend of Bafana Bafana, expressed confidence that the team can achieve a historic qualification for the second round at the FIFA World Cup during their match against South Korea on Thursday, June 24, 2026. This goal has eluded the senior national team in their previous three World Cup appearances. Currently, Bafana Bafana finds themselves at the bottom of Group A with only one point and must secure a victory against South Korea in Monterey to advance to the round of 32.

In an interview with iDiski Times senior writer Matshelane Mamabolo, Fish remarked on the team's performance in the 1-1 draw against Czechia last Thursday, suggesting they can build on this result. He noted that the players are beginning to understand the significance of the World Cup, instilling confidence in their ability to succeed.

"I’ve always said I’m very confident that this team will progress out of the group stages," Fish stated. He acknowledged the upcoming match against South Korea will be particularly challenging, as it requires a win to proceed. Fish emphasized the fitness and resilience of the Korean players, stating they would exert effort until the final whistle.

He added, "But I’m excited to see what Bafana can do. The improvement in the match against Czechia from that first one against Mexico gives me confidence for the final one."

Fish believes the players now possess a greater belief in their capabilities and have begun to grasp what competing at the World Cup entails. He encouraged the team to showcase their skills and secure the necessary result to advance past the group stage.