Thapelo Maseko's second-half strike secured a historic 1-0 victory for South Africa over South Korea on Wednesday, sending the team into the World Cup knockout stages for the first time. The win, celebrated jubilantly by players and fans, puts South Africa on four points in Group A, behind winners Mexico, who beat Czechia 3-0. South Korea, who started without captain Son Heung-min, remain on three points but still have a chance to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Match Decider
Maseko fired into the bottom corner in the 63rd minute after receiving a precise pass from Tshepang Moremi. He shifted the ball onto his preferred left foot before drilling a low finish into the bottom right-hand corner. The goal sparked wild celebrations, with teammates jumping on Maseko in front of the ecstatic South African supporters.
South Africa will now face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on 28 June. Coach Hugo Broos praised his team's tactical discipline: "It was a fantastic experience. It was so tough today, but it was a good game. I think tactically we were very good and it was difficult for South Korea to find space. We scored, then there were 20 minutes of heart-stopping moments. It's historical, and I'm very happy for the guys. I've been working with them for five years."
Early Pressure
South Korea made the brighter start, enjoying most of the possession but lacking a cutting edge. After two minutes, Kim Min-jae's header was cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba, and Lee Kang-in fired over from inside the penalty area shortly after. Bafana Bafana gradually grew into the contest and nearly struck in the 19th minute when Maseko raced onto a through ball, only for Lee Ki-hyuk to produce a superb last-ditch tackle.
Kim Seung-gyu then made an excellent double save, first denying Thalente Mbatha before smothering Evidence Makgopa's follow-up effort. South Africa soaked up the early pressure against a South Korea side that struggled to create clear openings, even with captain Son coming on at half-time.
Historic Achievement
South Africa had failed to advance from the group stage in their first three World Cup appearances in 1998, 2002, and 2010. This victory marks a significant milestone for the team and the nation. South Korea, despite the loss, can still progress as one of the eight best third-placed teams, depending on other group results.
