South Africa Makes History by Advancing to FIFA World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage

Historic Victory for South Africa

Guadalupe, Mexico - On June 25, South Africa achieved a historic milestone by securing a spot in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 for the first time ever, following a narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea in a tense Group A match.

Thapelo Maseko, at just 22 years and 225 days old, became the second youngest player to score for South Africa in World Cup history with his decisive goal in the second half.

The match saw Bafana Bafana triumph over a determined South Korean team, finishing as the runners-up in Group A and advancing to the Round of 32.

Despite facing a crowd that largely supported South Korea, South Africa started strong. Maseko posed an early threat, almost creating a scoring opportunity on a counterattack before being halted by defender Lee Gihyuk.

Throughout the first half, South Africa generated more chances, with Korean goalkeeper Kim Seunggyu making several crucial saves, including a long-range shot from Thalente Mbatha and a close-range attempt from Evidence Makgopa.

In the second half, South Korea's coach Hong Myungbo made three substitutions, including bringing in captain Son Heung-min, in hopes of turning the game around.

However, as South Korea pressed for an equalizer, South Africa capitalized on a counterattack. Substitute Teshpang Moremi received the ball on the left, evaded his defender, and delivered a low pass to Maseko, who expertly controlled it and finished into the near corner, putting South Africa ahead.

In the final moments, South Korea sought to equalize but could not penetrate South Africa's solid defense, allowing Bafana Bafana to secure a memorable win.

With this result, South Africa finished second in Group A, accumulating four points from three matches, with one win, one draw, and one loss. Mexico topped the group with a perfect nine points, while South Korea ended third with three points, and Czechia was eliminated with just one point.

Next, South Africa will head to Los Angeles to face the runners-up of Group B in the Round of 32 on June 28.

Mexico, the co-hosts, dominated Group A, winning all three matches and scoring six goals without conceding any.

South Africa's journey continues as they aim for further success in the tournament.