Bafana Bafana are competing in the tournament for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010, reaching the round of 32.
Published June 25, 2026
South Africa defeated South Korea 1-0, making a remarkable comeback from a disastrous first-round loss and advancing to the World Cup finals for the first time in history.
Bafana Bafana, playing in the competition for the first time since South Africa hosted it in 2010, were widely criticized after losing 2-0 to Group A winners Mexico.
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But they fought their way to a draw with the Czech Republic, and in Monterrey, thanks to a late goal from Thapelo Maseko, they advanced to an effective second-place match against South Korea.
South Korean coach Hong Myung-bo has made the shocking decision to remove captain Son Heung-min, considered by many to be the best player in Asian history, from the starting lineup.
The Asian team got off to a strong start, with stand-in captain Kim Min-jae’s powerful header blocked by Aubrey Modiba on the goal line, but Lee Gang-in’s goal went wide.
South Africa quickly settled down and played with hunger and adventure, but their finishing was in vain.
In the 30th minute, the team looked certain to take the lead when the ball fell to Evidence Magopa after South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu parried a shot from Talente Mbata.
However, Makgopa could only fire the ball straight at the goalkeeper from close range.
Son So-sung came on at the start of the second half, one of three changes coach Hong made in an attempt to change the script.
Early in the second period, Maseko once again found himself in a good position, while South Korean forward Oh Hyung-yu tested opposing goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
News came out of Mexico City that the hosts had a lead over the Czech Republic, further heightening the sense of urgency.
South Africa had a chance in the 63rd minute when Tshepang Moremi crossed for Maseko, who kept his composure this time and fired a shot inside the near post.
South Korea put up a strong attack in the final stages, but time ran out, and South Africa will now play co-host Canada on June 28 in Los Angeles.
Mexico won all three games and took the lead in the group with nine points.
