Maseko, Mbokazi Magic in Monterrey! Bafana Bafana Through to World Cup Last 32
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
Bafana Bafana Edge South Korea in Group A Thriller
South Africa became the second nation from Africa after Morocco to book their spot in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup in the early hours of Thursday morning by beating South Korea 1-0 in their Group A finale.
South Korea came into the contest needing just a single point to progress, while Bafana Bafana entered the match at the bottom of the group with just one point courtesy of a 1-1 draw against Czechia, which confirmed our 2026 World Cup predictions.
Hugo Broos made several big calls in the lead-up, opting for Evidence Makgopa at number nine and handing starlet Relebohile Mofokeng his first start of the tournament, and the Orlando Pirates duo both put in massive shifts in helping their side to a historic victory.
Makgopa was instrumental at the top of the pitch and played a key role in what turned out to be the defining moment in the match, laying off a stunning backheel in the build-up to South Africa’s goal, which was tucked away by Thapelo Maseko.
The Mamelodi Sundowns attacker was a menace to the Korean defence throughout the match and missed two clear-cut chances in the first half. However, the 22-year-old’s relentlessness eventually paid off as he fired a left-footed effort beyond Kim Seung-gyu in the 63rd minute to give his side the lead.
South Africa reach World Cup knockout stage for the first time in history!
After Mexico secured a 3-0 victory over Czechia at the Estadio Azteca and South Africa held on to their lead in Monterrey, Bafana Bafana overtook South Korea to second place in the group and booked their spot in the knockout round on football’s grandest stage for the first time ever.
Mbokazi Stocks Rise After Another Standout Performance
While South Africa’s attack has received massive praise for the improvement they have made since their opening match of the tournament, incredible defence, led by Mbekezile Mbokazi, contributed massively to their victory over South Korea.
The 20-year-old, who signed for Chicago Fire at the start of the season, became the first South African in 30 years to earn a place on the MLS All-Star Game roster, beating the likes of Lionel Messi by receiving the most fan votes for the First XI.
Mbokazi was massive for Bafana Bafana in the closing stages of their victory. The Hluhluwe native ended the game with the most clearances of any player on the pitch (13), won three duels and two key interceptions, while maintaining an 83% pass conversion.
South Africa are now set to face Canada in the Round of 32. The match will be played at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 28 (21:00 SAST).
