South Africa secure historic World Cup progression with victory over South Korea
Thapelo Maseko’s 63rd-minute strike seals second place in Group A, setting up a round of 32 clash against co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles.
South Africa have reached the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup for the first time in their history, securing second place in Group A with a 1-0 victory over South Korea. The result marks a significant turnaround for the national side, which began the tournament with a 2-0 defeat to group winners Mexico and a subsequent draw against the Czech Republic.
Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal in the 63rd minute, assisted by Tshepang Moremi. The strike came as news filtered through from Mexico City that the host nation were leading against the Czech Republic, adding urgency to the South African attack. Maseko kept his composure to fire home inside the near post, silencing doubts that had mounted after a dismal opening loss.
South Korean coach Hong Myung-bo made a tactical surprise by omitting captain Son Heungmin from the starting lineup. The forward, widely regarded as Asia’s greatest player, entered the match at the start of the second half as one of three changes made by the coach. South Korea started strongly, with stand-in captain Kim Minjae forcing a goal-line block from Aubrey Modiba, but failed to capitalise on their early dominance.
South African coach Hugo Broos described the achievement as historic, noting the tension that followed the goal. He stated there were 20 minutes of heartbeating and hoping that the game would finish quickly. Broos, who has managed the side for five years, expressed satisfaction with the squad’s performance after overcoming the initial shock of their opening loss.
South Africa will face co-hosts Canada in the round of 32 in Los Angeles on June 28. Mexico topped the group with nine points after winning all three of their matches, leaving South Africa to navigate the next stage as the second-placed team in their group.
