Guadalupe, June 25 -- South Africa secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage for the first time in their history after defeating South Korea 1-0 in a closely contested Group A encounter.

During the clash, Thapelo Maseko became the second youngest goalscorer for South Africa in the FIFA World Cup at 22 years and 225 days.

A second-half strike from winger Thapelo Maseko proved decisive as Bafana Bafana overcame a spirited Korean side to finish as runners-up in Group A and book their place in the Round of 32.

South Africa made a bright start despite playing in front of a crowd largely supporting South Korea. Thapelo Maseko looked threatening early on and nearly created an opening on a counterattack before being stopped by ...