South Africa has advanced to the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in its history, following a 1-0 victory over South Korea. The decisive goal came from Thapelo Maseko in the second half, securing second place in Group A for the Bafana Bafana.
The match saw Maseko fire into the bottom corner in the 63rd minute, propelling South Africa to four points in Group A. This places them behind group winners Mexico, who defeated Czechia 3-0. South Korea, despite the loss, still has a chance to progress as one of the eight best third-placed teams, currently holding three points.
This achievement marks a significant milestone for South Africa, as they had previously failed to advance from the group stage in their three prior World Cup appearances in 1998, 2002, and 2010. The 2010 tournament was particularly notable as they became the first host nation to miss out on the knockout rounds.
Head coach Hugo Broos expressed his happiness with the team’s performance. He highlighted the team’s tactical strength, which made it difficult for South Korea to find space. Broos, who has worked with the team for five years, described the moment as historical.
Celebrations and match details
The historic win sparked widespread celebrations across South Africa. Fans, young and old, took to the streets in communities like Soweto in their nightgowns and pyjamas to sing and dance, despite the match kicking off at 3 am local time. This outpouring of joy reflects the significance of the achievement for a nation that has seen success in other sports like rugby and cricket, but has longed for similar triumphs in football since winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996.
Former South Africa striker Marks Maponyane captured the national mood on social media, noting the long day ahead but affirming that the victory was worth every yawn.
During the match, South Korea started brightly, with Kim Min-jae‘s header cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba early in the game. Lee Kang-in also had a shot that went wide. However, South Africa gradually gained momentum. Thapelo Maseko nearly scored in the 19th minute, but Lee Ki-hyuk made a crucial tackle. Kim Seung-gyu then made a double save, denying Thalente Mbatha and then Evidence Makgopa.
South Korea‘s captain, Son Heung-min, who started on the bench, was introduced at half-time as part of a triple substitution. Despite enjoying most of the possession, South Korea struggled to create clear openings. Maseko‘s goal came after Tshepang Moremi delivered a precise pass, allowing Maseko to shift the ball to his preferred left foot and drill a low finish into the bottom right-hand corner.
Son Heung-min’s tournament performance
Son Heung-min‘s tournament has been challenging. He was benched for the first time in World Cup games by South Korea boss Myung-Bo Hong, a decision that was described as bold but increasingly understandable. In previous matches, Son was substituted in the opening game, where Hyeon-Gyu scored the winner, and played minutes in the defeat to Mexico.
Even after coming on at half-time against South Africa, Son registered touches but only one inside the penalty area. His influence has reportedly been diminished, and he has not scored a World Cup goal since 2018. South Korea now faces an anxious wait to see if they will qualify for the knockout stages as a third-placed team, which would offer Son another opportunity to make an impact.
South Africa will now prepare to face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on Sunday in the round of 32.
Source: theguardian.com
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