South Africa secured a historic and first ever place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating South Korea narrowly by 1-0 in their final Group A match at Estadio BBVA.
Bafana Bafana produced a disciplined performance and were rewarded in the 63rd minute when Cypriot-based attacker Thapelo Maseko found the breakthrough to hand his side a crucial victory.
The match was evenly contested for long periods, with both teams battling for a result that could keep their hopes of progression alive.
However, Maseko’s strike proved decisive as South Africa held firm defensively to protect their lead and claim all three points.
The victory sees South Africa finish the group stage with four points from three matches, having recorded one win, one draw and one defeat.
It also marks a landmark achievement for Bafana Bafana, who have reached the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history.
South Africa become only the second African nation after Morocco to qualify for the Round of 32 at the 2026 tournament and the 12th country overall to secure a place in the next phase.
They advance alongside group winners Mexico, who finished top of Group A with a perfect nine points after winning all three of their matches.
