South Africa 1-0 South Korea: Maseko’s Late Strike Sends Bafana Bafana into World Cup Knockouts for First Time

GUADALUPE, Mexico — June 24, 2026

In a moment that will echo through the corridors of South African football history, Thapelo Maseko struck to send Bafana Bafana into the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup for the very first time.

A nerve-jangling 1-0 victory over South Korea in Guadalupe, near Monterrey, Mexico wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. A seismic shift in fortunes for a nation that had long been haunted by group-stage exits. With the final whistle, the dream became reality: South Africa are through.

Maseko’s left-footed finish, cool and clinical, cut through the heart of the Korean defence after a slick build-up from midfield. The goal came despite South Korea’s dominance in possession — they held 68.4% of the ball and carried an expected goals (xG) tally of 1.0 compared to South Africa’s 1.1. But in football, as in life, it’s not always about control — sometimes, it’s about capitalising when the chance arrives.

The Koreans, who had come into the match needing a win to have any hope of advancing, were forced to reshuffle their deck at half-time. Captain Son Heung-min — making his 13th appearance at a World Cup — was among the substitutes brought on, a clear sign of desperation. Kim Seung-gyu started in goal, but couldn’t conjure up enough magic to stop the tide.

Mexico, meanwhile, wrapped up Group A with a commanding 3-0 win over Czechia, securing nine points and top spot. South Africa finished second with four points, edging out South Korea, who ended third with three. Czechia, with just one point, exited at the first hurdle.

Now, Bafana Bafana turn their attention to the next chapter: a Round of 32 clash against Canada at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. For a team that once seemed destined to be perpetual outsiders in the global showpiece, this is uncharted territory — and every player knows it.

This victory isn’t just about points or progression. It’s about legacy. It’s about proving that belief, grit, and a single moment of brilliance can rewrite history. And on this day, under the Mexican sun, South Africa did exactly that.