'South Africa's Yaya' Sithole: "Reaching the Knockout Stage Would Be New History, Huge Motivation"

South African midfielder Sphephelo Sithole (27, CD Tondela) expressed his determination to make history by reaching the knockout stage, just one day before the final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage against South Korea.

During a press conference held at the Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico, on June 24, Sithole emphasized, "This is a match where we could become the first team from South Africa to reach the World Cup knockout stage."

South Africa has qualified for the World Cup three times but has never advanced past the group stage.

Even in the 2010 tournament hosted on home soil, they were eliminated after finishing third in their group.

The team's momentum in this tournament has also been difficult, as they have recorded one draw and one loss through the first two matches.

However, a victory against South Korea would secure their first-ever spot in the World Cup knockout stage.

Regarding the 0-2 defeat in the opening match against Mexico, Sithole admitted, "We didn't play that well," but added, "We were much better in the second match against the Czech Republic. We have built a good team, and we are becoming a better side."

On the topic of South Korea, he stated firmly, "We have analyzed the opposing players very well. I trust our coaching staff's analysis. Tomorrow, we have only one goal: to win."

Sithole, a native of Durban, South Africa, was recognized for his talent early on, consistently being selected for South Africa's youth national teams.

Standing 186 cm tall, the defensive midfielder is often called "Yaya" due to his playing style, which draws comparisons to Yaya Toure, who played for FC Barcelona (Spain) and Manchester City (England).

In 2017, he joined the youth team of the prestigious Portuguese club Sporting CP.

He has spent his career in the Portuguese league and currently plays for CD Tondela.

Tondela was in the first division last season but was relegated and will compete in the second division next season.

Sithole was sent off in the opening match against Mexico and missed the second match; he will play his second World Cup match in this upcoming game against South Korea.

The final Group A match between South Korea and South Africa will take place at Monterrey Stadium on June 25 at 10:00 AM.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.