South Africa celebrates historic win over South Korea, advances to knockout stage

South Africa achieved a historic milestone in the 2026 North American World Cup, securing a 1-0 victory against South Korea to advance to the Round of 16. This marks the first time the "Bafana Bafana" have progressed beyond the group stage in their fourth World Cup appearance.

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South Africa gave the blow in the 2026 North American World Cup this Wednesday by beating South Korea 1-0 and advancing to the round of 16 in second place in Group A, behind co-host Mexico, undefeated leader of the key.

The decisive goal came in the 63rd minute from Thapelo Maseko. The play originated on the left flank, with Relebohile Mofokeng breaking past his defender to deliver a precise pass. Maseko controlled the ball, turned, and finished with his left foot past the South Korean goalkeeper.

The match, held at the BBVA Stadium in Monterrey, Mexico, saw South Africa finish second in Group A with four points, behind undefeated co-host Mexico. South Korea placed third with three points, still in contention for a spot as one of the best third-placed teams. The Czech Republic was eliminated with one point.

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In one of the great surprises of the tournament, the Bafana Bafana, in their fourth World Cup participation, achieved the feat with a goal from Thapelo Maseko in the 63rd minute.

South Africa's next challenge will be against co-host Canada, the second-place finisher in Group B. Their Round of 16 match is scheduled for Sunday in Los Angeles.

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The action of the goal was born on the left with Relebohile Mofokeng, who broke down in the one-on-one and served a precise pass to Maseko, who controlled, turned and finished with his left foot to beat the South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu.