South African football fans in Bloemfontein plan to stay awake for Bafana Bafana's final group stage match against South Korea at 3am on 25 June. The team, currently fourth in Group A with one point, needs a victory at Monterrey Stadium to advance. Coach Hugo Broos described the encounter as a chance to make history.
Residents in Bloemfontein expressed hope that Bafana Bafana can progress despite the early kick-off time. One fan told SABC News he would sacrifice sleep and cross his fingers for a positive result.
"I will sacrifice my sleep, and I hope it is worth it," the resident said. "But there’s a little bit of doubt; but let’s give it the benefit of the doubt and say maybe we will win and proceed to the next round."
Bafana Bafana enter the match after a 2-0 defeat to Mexico and a 1-1 draw with Czechia. A win is required to reach the knockout stage for the first time, while a draw offers only a slim chance.
Coach Hugo Broos told journalists the team is motivated. "We can write history," he said. Midfielder Teboho Mokoena is suspended, but teammate Sphephelo Sithole returns from his own ban.
