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South Africa Advance to First World Cup Knockout Stage After Edging South Korea

Thapelo Maseko's second-half goal gave South Africa a 1-0 victory over South Korea, securing a historic first knockout berth. They'll face Canada in Los Angeles.

2026-06-25T11:01:27.101Z

South Africa Advance to First World Cup Knockout Stage After Edging South Korea

South Africa reached the knockout stage of a World Cup for the first time with a 1-0 win over South Korea in Monterrey, Mexico, on Wednesday.

Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal in the 63rd minute, firing a low shot into the bottom corner. The victory moved South Africa to four points in Group A, behind already-qualified Mexico. South Korea finished with three points and could still advance as one of the best third-placed teams.

South Africa will face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on June 28.

South Africa had previously failed to advance from the group stage in their first three World Cup appearances (1998, 2002, 2010).

Topics South Africa South Korea World Cup Thapelo Maseko Canada Mexico