Historic World Cup Advance
South Africa advances to World Cup knockout stage for the first time, defeating South Korea
South Africa made World Cup history on June 24, beating South Korea 1-0 to reach the knockout stage for the first time ever. Thapelo Maseko scored the only goal in the 63rd minute, sending Bafana Bafana through as runners-up in Group A behind Mexico, according to ESPN.
The win sets up a Round of 32 clash against co-hosts Canada on June 28 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, The Globe and Mail reported. South Africa entered the tournament ranked 60th in the world. They leave the group stage with four points and a historic first.
Maseko's 63rd-Minute Strike Seals Historic Win
South Africa spent much of the match under pressure. In just the 2nd minute, Kim Min-jae's header had to be cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba. But the team held firm. Then, in the 63rd minute, substitute Tshepang Moremi delivered a cross and Maseko finished it, according to ESPN.
Captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams then made a diving save in the 90th minute to keep the lead intact. The 22-year-old Maseko, on loan at AEL Limassol from Mamelodi Sundowns, said after the game: "We have an excellent coach and analysts... we just need to execute," The Washington Post reported.
From Last Place to Second: South Africa's Comeback Story
South Africa did not look like a knockout team after their opening match. They lost 2-0 to Mexico, and two players — Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane — were sent off with red cards. Their World Cup looked over before it had started, CBC reported.
But they recovered. A 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic, saved by a late Teboho Mokoena penalty, kept them alive. Then came the win over South Korea. The final Group A standings: Mexico with 9 points, South Africa with 4, South Korea with 3, and Czech Republic with 1, according to Yahoo Sports.
South Korea's Tactical Turmoil and Son's Shock Absence
South Korea arrived in Monterrey already in crisis. Coach Hong Myung-bo had faced boos from fans since his appointment. Star captain Son Heung-min — who plays for LAFC — was left on the bench to start, a decision widely called a "shock" by pundits, according to Yahoo News.
Son came on in the second half but could not change the result. After the loss, Hong said: "The poor result is my responsibility as the coach." South Korean fans online were far harsher. The team's early exit follows what many described as years of mismanagement by the Korea Football Association.
Canada Awaits in Los Angeles on June 28
Canada will host the round of 32 match at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on June 28. Canadian fans have reportedly called the draw "the best possible outcome," preferring South Africa over powerhouses like Belgium or Mexico. Tickets are already on sale, with the cheapest options available now, according to USA Today.
Canada coach Jesse Marsch has spoken about wanting to inject "American arrogance" into his side, CBC reported. South Africa coach Hugo Broos showed equal confidence before the South Korea match, saying: "We are well-informed... nothing escapes us of what South Korea can do." Expect similar preparation against Canada. President Cyril Ramaphosa, who gave the team a public send-off before the tournament, had told them: "Asifuni group stage... You are bringing the trophy home."
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