South Africa made history on Thursday after defeating South Korea 1-0 to advance to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup for the first time, breaking a decades‑long barrier that had defined their previous tournament appearances.
A 63rd‑minute strike from Thapelo Maseko at Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico, sealed Bafana Bafana’s passage to the Round of 32 and triggered celebrations across the country, with jubilant scenes reported in Soweto and other major cities.
Heading into their final Group A match, Hugo Broos’ side knew that only a win would guarantee progression.
South Korea, needing just a draw, started aggressively but South Africa produced a disciplined and composed performance to secure the result they needed.
The victory lifted Bafana Bafana to second place in the group on four points, behind Mexico who topped the standings after completing a perfect group‑stage run with a 3–0 win over Czechia.
South Africa will now face Canada in the Round of 32 on Sunday.
The achievement marks a watershed moment for South African football.
In their previous three World Cup appearances – 1998, 2002 and 2010 – Bafana Bafana failed to advance beyond the group stage, despite memorable performances, including a historic opening match draw against Mexico in 2010 on home soil.
Thursday’s result finally ended that long‑standing pattern.
JN/APA