South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo has taken personal responsibility for his side's 1-0 defeat to South Africa in a pivotal FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match, admitting his in-game decisions ultimately cost his team.

Bafana Bafana — widely considered underdogs heading into the encounter — delivered a disciplined and resolute performance to overcome South Korea on Thursday and book a Round of 32 showdown with co-hosts Canada.

The result proved a serious blow to South Korea's ambitions. They had required only a draw to secure a place in the last 32, while Hugo Broos' side needed a victory to stay in contention — and they delivered exactly that.

Myung-bo points the finger at himself

Rather than deflecting blame, the experienced coach was candid in his post-match assessment, acknowledging that his choices on the day fell short.