South Africa defeated South Korea to finish second in group A of the 2026 World Cup. It is their first ever progress out of the grouo stage of the World Cup. Bafana Bafana lost the opening match, drew with Czech and needed a win on World Cup Day 14 to progress.

The win and final group position sets up a date with Canada in Los Angeles. Canada in group B lost the battle for supremacy to Switzerland (2-1) and would no longer play in Canada in the competition. A host not playing at home. Weird, but understandable. On the positive note, they are in the knockout phase of the World Cup for the first time ever.

Mexico defeated Czech 3-0 and finished top of group A. Switzerland’s victory over Canda put them top of group B. Bosnia & Herzegovina defeated Qatar 3-1 to increase their chances of qualifying through the best 3rd route.

In Grouo C, Morocco came from behind to defeat Haiti 4-2, finishing 2nd in the group only on goal difference. It was a scare ro be 2-1 down but the Moroccans turned it around. Vinicius Jr scored a brace as Brazil defeated Scotland 3-0. Neymar made his first appearance of the World Cup.

Today, it is Ecuador vs Germany and Cote d’Ivoire vs Curacao in group E; Tunisia vs Netherlands and Japan vs Sweden in group F; Paraguay vs Australia and Turkey vs USA in group D.

There is all to play for in Group E. Germany have secured top spot. The other three teams need wins to progress. In Grouo F, a Swedish win would take Gyokeres and his lads to the next phase.

Predictions: Ecuador 0-2 Germany, Cote d’Ivoire 2-0 Curacao, Tunisia 0-2 Netherlands, Japan 1-2 Sweden, Paraguay 2-2 Australia, Turkey 1-1 USA.

I will be cheering my neighbours Cote d’Ivoire from the stands today. I hope they progress. I am also rooting for Sweden with Gyokeres to score.

Photocredit: FIFA (X)