South Africa created history at the FIFA World Cup 2026 by reaching the knockout stages for the first time after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Korea Republic in their final Group A match on Wednesday.
In a tense encounter where both sides knew defeat would end their tournament, it was Thapelo Maseko’s second-half strike that proved decisive and secured a landmark result for Bafana Bafana.The
Korea Republic controlled much of the early possession in Monterrey, but South Africa looked dangerous on the break. Maseko himself had already come close in the first half, while Kim Seunggyu was called into action to deny Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa as South Africa created the better chances before the break.
After half-time, Korea Republic coach Hong Myungbo introduced Son Heungmin among several changes in a bid to tilt the match, but it was South Africa who struck against the run of play.
The breakthrough came when Teshpang Moremi drove down the left flank and delivered a low ball across the edge of the box. Maseko controlled it, shifted onto his left foot and calmly slotted the finish into the near post to send the South African bench into celebration.
Korea Republic pushed for an equaliser in the final stages but could not find a way past a disciplined South African defence, as Hugo Broos’ side held firm to secure second place in Group A.
The result means South Africa will now face Canada in Los Angeles on 28 June in the Round of 32, continuing their unexpected but memorable run at the tournament.
Key statistics showed Maseko has become the second youngest South African goalscorer in World Cup history at 22 years and 225 days, underlining a breakthrough moment in his international career.
After the match, South Africa coach Hugo Broos praised his team’s resilience and long-term progress, while Maseko dedicated the win to supporters, calling the moment “unbelievable” and “a dream”.
