South Africa secured a historic place in the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating South Korea 1-0 in their final Group A match on Wednesday.
Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal in the 63rd minute to send Bafana Bafana into the Round of 32.
The victory marks the first time South Africa have advanced beyond the group stage of a World Cup, completing a remarkable turnaround after opening their campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Mexico.
South Africa entered the match needing a positive result and delivered under pressure, finishing second in Group A behind Mexico, who won all three of their group-stage matches.
South Korea began brightly despite coach Hong Myung-bo opting to leave captain Son Heung-min on the bench. The Asian side created several early opportunities, but South Africa gradually grew into the contest and threatened repeatedly through their attacking play.
After Son was introduced at the start of the second half, South Korea increased their attacking intent. However, South Africa struck first when Tshepang Moremi delivered a cross that Maseko converted at the near post to break the deadlock.
South Korea pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but South Africa’s defence held firm to preserve the lead and seal a famous victory.
The result sends South Africa into the Round of 32, where they will face co-hosts Canada on June 28 in Los Angeles. South Korea, meanwhile, must wait to discover whether their three points will be enough to qualify as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
