South Africa make World Cup history, reach knockout stage for first time
Monterrey, Mexico: South Africa scripted one of the stories of the World Cup on Wednesday, defeating South Korea 1-0 to reach the knockout stage for the first time in the nation's history.
A second-half strike from Thapelo Maseko proved decisive in Monterrey as Bafana Bafana sealed second place in Group A and a last-16 meeting with co-hosts Canada.
South Africa's qualification marks a remarkable turnaround after a disappointing start to the tournament. Hugo Broos's side were beaten 2-0 by Mexico in the opening match and faced an uphill task, but a draw against the Czech Republic followed by victory over South Korea secured a historic passage to the knockout rounds.
South Korea began brightly and came close to taking the lead when Kim Min-jae's header was cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba. Lee Kang-in also threatened early as the Asian side looked to seize control.
South Africa gradually grew into the contest and created the better opportunities. Evidence Makgopa squandered a golden chance before halftime when he failed to beat goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu from close range after Thalente Mbatha's effort had been parried.
South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo introduced captain Son Heung-min at the start of the second half after surprisingly leaving the Tottenham forward on the bench.
But it was South Africa who found the breakthrough. In the 63rd minute, Tshepang Moremi delivered a cross into the area and Maseko calmly fired inside the near post to spark celebrations among the South African supporters.
The Koreans pushed forward in search of an equaliser, with Oh Hyeon-gyu testing goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, but South Africa defended resolutely to preserve their lead and secure a landmark victory.
The result ensured South Africa finished second in the group behind co-hosts Mexico, who won all three of their matches to top the standings with nine points. South Korea bowed out of the tournament, while South Africa advanced to the knockout stage for the first time ever.