FIFA World Cup 2026: South Africa reach historic knockout stage with 1-0 win over South Korea

South Africa secured a historic place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over an energetic South Korea side in their Group A clash. Thapelo Maseko’s second-half strike proved decisive, while Korea’s hopes of progression now hang in the balance.

The Koreans must wait to see if their tally is enough to qualify as one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams.

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South Africa made the brighter start, with Maseko seeing a promising counterattack halted at the last moment by defender Lee Gihyuk. Later in the first half, goalkeeper Kim Seunggyu kept his side in the contest with two excellent saves, first tipping away Thalente Mbatha’s long-range effort before denying Evidence Makgopa from close range.

Seeking a breakthrough after the interval, South Korea head coach Hong Myungbo introduced three substitutes, including talisman Son Heung-min. Despite the Koreans pushing forward in search of an opener, it was a South African substitute who ultimately changed the game, FIFA reported.

Against the run of play, Teshpang Moremi picked up possession on the left flank, beat his marker and delivered a low ball across the edge of the penalty area. Maseko controlled neatly onto his left foot before firing past the goalkeeper at the near post to score the winner.

At 22 years and 225 days, Maseko became South Africa’s second-youngest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.

“It’s unbelievable; it feels like a dream. Thank you to the fans; they gave it their all. This is for everyone who supported us, but also for those who didn’t. There were many people who didn’t believe in us. We went through some rough patches, but this team showed that it is capable and strong,” Maseko said after the match.

South Africa finished as Group A runners-up and will face Group B runners-up Canada in Los Angeles on June 29 for a place in the quarterfinals.