Maseko's Goal Powers South Africa Into Knockouts

A Thapelo Maseko stunner in the 63rd minute clinched victory and historic progress for South Africa against South Korea in Monterrey.

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As runners-up in Group A, Bafana Bafana will play their next match in Los Angeles on June 28 against Group B runners-up Canada.

Maseko threatened to score early on but was denied at the last moment by Korea defender Lee Gihyuk.

Later in the first-half Kim Seunggyu made two fine saves, first blocking Thalente Mbatha's shot from distance, before denying Evidence Makgopa from point-blank range.

In an attempt to shift the momentum in Korea's favour, they made three changes including the introduction of talisman Son Heungmin.

However, as the Koreans pushed for an opener, it was a South African substitute who made the difference.

Against the run of play, Teshpang Moremi collected the ball on the left wing, beat a defender and fizzed a ball across the top of the penalty area.

Maseko controlled the ball inside toward his left foot and slotted the winning goal in at the near post.

Player of the Match:Thapelo Maseko (South Africa)

After the match :Thapelo Maseko, South Africa goalscorer said, "It's unbelievable, it feels like a dream. Thank you to the fans, they gave it their all. This is for everyone who supported us, but also for those who didn't. There were many people who didn't believe in us. We went through some rough patches. But this team showed that they are capable and strong."

Chosen by the fans: Thapelo Maseko, your @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match. ✨

#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/A2bAqcRZb1

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 25, 2026