Maseko Fires South Africa Into World Cup Last 32 With Historic Win Over South Korea

South Africa made history on Wednesday by reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time after defeating South Korea 1-0 in a decisive Group A encounter in Monterrey.

The victory completed an impressive recovery for Hugo Broos’ side, who looked destined for an early exit after losing 2-0 to Mexico in the tournament opener.

A draw against the Czech Republic revived their hopes and set up a winner-takes-all showdown with South Korea, which was ultimately settled by Thapelo Maseko’s second-half strike.

An emotional Broos praised his players for their achievement.

“We scored that goal, and it was 20 minutes of heartbeating and hoping that the game should be finished as soon as possible,” he said.

“So yes, we are in the second round. It’s historic. But I’m very happy for the guys. I’ve worked with them for five years. And what we did in those five years is amazing.”

South Korea entered the match without star forward Son Heung-min in the starting lineup, a surprise decision by coach Hong Myung-bo.

The move appeared justified early on as South Korea created the better chances. Kim Min-jae’s header was dramatically cleared off the goal line by Aubrey Modiba, while Lee Kang-in also came close.

South Africa, however, grew into the contest and threatened repeatedly, though their finishing let them down.

Evidence Makgopa squandered a golden opportunity in the first half after pouncing on a rebound from Kim Seung-gyu, only to shoot directly at the goalkeeper from close range.

Son was introduced after halftime in an attempt to spark South Korea’s attack, but it was South Africa who found the breakthrough.

With news spreading that Mexico were leading the Czech Republic in the other group match, the urgency increased for both teams.

In the 63rd minute, Tshepang Moremi supplied a dangerous cross and Maseko made no mistake, driving the ball inside the near post to hand South Africa the lead.

South Korea launched a late assault in search of an equaliser, but South Africa defended resolutely to preserve their advantage and claim a landmark victory.

The Bafana Bafana will now face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on June 28, while Mexico advanced as group winners after collecting maximum points from their three matches.

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