South Africa produced one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating South Korea 1-0 to qualify for the knockout rounds for the first time in the nation’s history.
According to AFP, as reported by Channels Television, the Bafana Bafana completed a remarkable turnaround after opening their campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Mexico. A draw against the Czech Republic set up a decisive final Group A clash against South Korea in Monterrey, where victory would secure progression.
The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute when Thapelo Maseko converted Tshepang Moremi’s cross, firing inside the near post to send South African fans into celebration.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos hailed the achievement after the final whistle.
“We scored that goal, and it was 20 minutes of heartbeating and hoping that the game should be finished as soon as possible,” the Belgian said.
“So yes, we are in the second round. It’s historic. But I’m very happy for the guys. I’ve worked with them for five years. And what we did in those five years is amazing.”
South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo made a surprise tactical decision by leaving captain Son Heung-min on the bench at kick-off.
The Asian side began brightly, with stand-in captain Kim Min-jae going close and Lee Kang-in also threatening. However, South Africa gradually gained confidence and created several opportunities.
Evidence Makgopa missed a golden chance in the first half after goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu parried a shot into his path, while Maseko also squandered an opportunity shortly after the break.
Son Heung-min was introduced at half-time as one of three substitutions, but South Korea struggled to find a way back after Maseko’s decisive strike.
South Africa held firm through late pressure to secure a historic victory and finish second in Group A behind co-hosts Mexico, who won all three group matches to top the standings with nine points.
The result sets up a last-32 clash against co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on June 28.
The victory marks South Africa’s first appearance in the World Cup knockout stage and one of the country’s greatest achievements on the international football stage.
