South Africa produced one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, defeating South Korea 1-0 to qualify for the knockout stages for the first time in their history.
The Bafana Bafana, returning to the World Cup for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010, had started poorly after a 2-0 defeat to Mexico in their opening Group A match. Many had already written them off before they staged a remarkable turnaround.
A hard-fought draw against the Czech Republic kept their hopes alive, setting up a decisive clash with South Korea in Monterrey, where Thapelo Maseko’s second-half strike sealed a historic victory.
South Africa head coach Hugo Broos described the achievement as emotional and unforgettable, praising his team’s resilience after years of rebuilding.
He said the final minutes were tense as his side tried to hold on, but expressed pride in what the team has accomplished since he took charge.
South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo made a surprising decision by leaving star captain Son Heung-min out of the starting lineup, though the forward was later introduced in the second half.
The Koreans began strongly, creating early chances, but South Africa’s defence held firm while goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made key interventions.
Despite South Korea’s pressure in the closing stages, they could not find an equaliser as South Africa defended their lead until the final whistle.
After missing several earlier chances, South Africa finally broke through in the 63rd minute when Tshepang Moremi set up Maseko, who finished calmly into the near post to send his side into celebration.
The result confirmed South Africa’s place in the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles.
S’Africa Makes History with Shock Win Over S’Korea to Reach World Cup Knockouts
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