Thapelo Maseko scored the only goal as South Africa defeated South Korea 1-0 in their final Group A match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a place in the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
The Bafana Bafana, who had lost their opening game but bounced back strongly, produced a disciplined performance at Estadio BBVA despite limited possession.
Maseko struck in the 63rd minute, finishing a well-worked move by slotting the ball past South Korea goalkeeper Seung-Gyu Kim into the bottom right corner.
South Africa created several chances throughout the encounter, with Evidence Makgopa and Maseko testing the Korean defence before the decisive goal. South Korea, despite efforts from players like Lee Kang-in, could not break down a resilient Bafana backline.
The victory sends South Africa through as one of the group’s top teams, marking a landmark achievement for African football on the global stage. South Korea’s loss leaves their knockout hopes dependent on other results.
Coach Hugo Broos’s side will now prepare for the round of 32 with renewed confidence after one draw and a win in the tournament.
