South Africa makes football history by reaching knockout rounds.
History was made in Guadalupe as South Africa secured a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage for the first time ever following a gritty 1-0 victory over South Korea.
Bafana Bafana broke the deadlock in the second half through 22-year-old winger Thapelo Maseko. Substitute Teshpang Moremi created the opportunity, driving down the left flank before delivering a precise low pass. Maseko controlled the ball smoothly, shifted it to his left foot, and drilled a sharp finish into the near corner. This strike made Maseko the second youngest goalscorer for his country in tournament history.
South Korea fought back intensely, introducing star captain Son Heung-min after the interval. Despite heavy pressure and waves of attacks from the Korean side, the African nation defended with remarkable composure. Korean goalkeeper Kim Seunggyu kept his team in the match earlier with spectacular saves against Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa, but his efforts were not enough.
This historic victory places South Africa second in Group A with four points, trailing group leaders Mexico who finished with a perfect nine points. South Korea exits the competition in third place with three points, while Czechia finishes last. South African fans will remember this as their finest footballing hour since hosting the tournament back in 2010.
Bafana Bafana will now travel to Los Angeles for their Round of 32 clash on June 28.
Image Courtesy: ANI
