FIFA World Cup 2026: Maseko sends South Africa into knockouts for first time

It was a game that neither side could afford to lose — but it was South Africa who found a way to win.

Thanks to a second-half goal from winger Thapelo Maseko, Bafana Bafana overcame an energetic Korea Republic in an exciting, albeit low-scoring, clash to advance to their first-ever knockout match at the FIFA World Cup™.

Playing in front of a largely Korean crowd, South Africa started the better in Monterrey.

Early on, Maseko had a promising fastbreak cut out at the last moment by Korea defender Lee Gihyuk. Later in the half Kim Seunggyu made two fine saves, first parrying Thalente Mbatha’s shot from distance, before denying Evidence Makgopa from point-blank range.

Hong Myungbo threw caution to the wind after the break, making three changes, including the introduction of talisman Son Heungmin, in an attempt to shift the scoreline in Korea Republic’s favour.

However, as the Koreans pushed for an opener, it was a South African substitute who made the difference.

Against the run of play, Teshpang Moremi collected the ball on the left wing, beat a defender and fizzed a ball across the top of the penalty area. Maseko controlled the ball inside toward his left foot and slotted the winning goal in at the near post.

As runners-up in Group A, Bafana Bafana will play their next match in Los Angeles on 28 June against Group B runners-up Canada. (FIFA)