South Africa 1-0 South Korea: Maseko’s 63rd-Minute Strike Sends Bafana Bafana Into First-Ever World Cup Knockouts
South African football has a new landmark moment. On 24 June 2026, in a decisive Group A clash at the FIFA World Cup, Bafana Bafana stunned South Korea 1-0 thanks to Thapelo Maseko’s cool finish, booking a place in the knockout stage for the very first time in the nation’s history.
First Half: Cagey and Cautious
South Korea began the brighter side, using their slick midfield to dictate possession and probing down the flanks for openings. South Africa sat in a disciplined, compact shape, content to soak up pressure and break at pace. Neither side could convert their territory into clear-cut chances, and a series of composed claims from the South African goalkeeper kept the Korean crosses at bay. The teams went in level at 0-0.
Second Half: Maseko Pounces
Korea introduced talisman Son Heung-min at the interval in search of more attacking thrust — the captain had been a surprise omission from the starting XI, ending a long run of consecutive World Cup starts. But it was South Africa who landed the blow. In the 63rd minute, Tshepang Moremi delivered an inch-perfect cross and Maseko seized the moment, firing low inside the near post to make it 1-0. The goal lifted the entire South African side. Korea pushed bodies forward in search of an equaliser, and goalkeeper Kim Seunggyu produced sharp saves at the other end, but the Bafana Bafana rearguard held firm to protect their slender lead until the final whistle.
Key Performers
Maseko was the undisputed match-winner, his composure proving the difference. Moremi’s assist was equally vital. For Korea, Son worked hard after coming on but could never quite unlock a resolute South African back line.
What It Means
The win sends South Africa through as Group A runners-up, behind a Mexico side that won all three of its matches. For Bafana Bafana, reaching the Round of 32 is a first in their World Cup history. They now face co-hosts Canada on 28 June, dreaming of going further still. Read more in our match reports, follow the action on live scores, and check upcoming games on our fixtures page.
Disclaimer: The score, goal and player details in this report are compiled from multiple post-match sources. Should they differ from official data, FIFA’s published figures take precedence.
