South Africa make historic leap into knockouts

South Africa reached the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in their history after a tense 1-0 victory over South Korea in Monterrey. Written off after losing their opener to Mexico, Bafana Bafana revived their campaign with a draw against the Czech Republic before edging a decisive showdown for second place. Thapelo Maseko delivered the historic breakthrough in the 63rd minute, finishing calmly at the near post after Tshepang Moremi’s precise cross.

Coach Hugo Broos praised his players’ resilience, admitting the final minutes were filled with anxiety as South Korea pushed desperately for an equaliser. Hong Myung-bo’s surprise decision to bench Son Heung-min initially backfired, though the captain’s introduction at half-time lifted Korea’s tempo. South Africa survived late pressure, with Ronwen Williams making key saves, and now advance to face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on June 28. Mexico topped Group A with a perfect nine points.