World Cup 2026: South Africa reach knockout stage for first time with win over South Korea
South Africa reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time on Wednesday with a 1-0 victory over South Korea, completing a remarkable recovery after losing their opener.
Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive second-half goal as Bafana Bafana secured second place in Group A behind Mexico after drawing with the Czech Republic.
Maseko Strike Sends South Africa to First World Cup Knockouts
- South Africa stun South Korea to make World Cup history The Standard —
- Thapelo Maseko's goal sends South Africa into first-ever World Cup knockout round USA Today —
- South Africa stun South Korea, advance in second place from Group A Bangkok Post —
- South Africa into round of 32 after win over South Korea BBC Sport —