World Cup 2026 has its first major shock: South Korea are out at the group stage, and captain Son Heung-min has apologised in tears, vowing to “run to death” for the nation’s fans. For England, chasing a first World Cup since 1966, the scene is a stark warning — in the new 48-team format, no favourite can afford to relax.
Why South Korea’s collapse should worry the Three Lions
South Korea won their opener in Mexico but lost their next two games to finish third in Group A. A draw in their final match would have been enough, yet a 1-0 defeat to South Africa knocked them out of the eight best third-placed teams. For England, the lesson is blunt: in a 48-team field, a single slip can end your tournament.
Thomas Tuchel’s side cannot fall into the trap of playing the table. South Korea’s exit proves that individual talent guarantees nothing without consistency across all three group games.
England in their group: what to watch
England arrive as one of the favourites, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham leading a deep squad. But the expanded format multiplies the number of teams capable of an upset, exactly as South Africa managed against South Korea.
The key for England is to bank six points early, securing qualification without depending on the cruel third-place ranking that eliminated Son Heung-min.
Son’s emotion, the human face of the World Cup
The former Tottenham forward, who joined MLS side LAFC, remains South Korea’s joint top World Cup scorer with three goals, level with Park Ji-sung and Ahn Jung-hwan. His public apology and plea for encouragement over criticism lay bare the pressure on every captain.
For England’s leaders, it is also a warning: wearing the armband for a favourite means owning every result in front of millions of fans.
FAQ
Why are South Korea out of the World Cup 2026?
South Korea finished third in Group A with one win and two defeats, including a 1-0 loss to South Africa, and missed out on the eight best third-placed teams.
What did Son Heung-min say after the exit?
The captain apologised to fans, asked for encouragement rather than criticism, and promised to ‘run to death’ for South Korean football.
What does this mean for England?
The 48-team format makes the third-place ranking decisive, so England must win early to avoid the trap that eliminated South Korea.
Are England favourites for the World Cup 2026?
Yes, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham under Thomas Tuchel, England are among the favourites, but South Korea’s exit shows no status protects you from upsets.
What is the new World Cup 2026 format?
The tournament expands to 48 teams in 12 groups; the top two and the eight best third-placed sides advance to a 32-team knockout round.
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