South Africa reaches World Cup knockout stage for the first time

South Africa qualified for the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1‑0 victory over South Korea in Monterrey. The winning goal was scored by striker Thapelo Maseko early in the second half, securing the Bafana Bafana’s first ever knockout‑stage appearance. The upset followed a 2‑0 loss to co‑hosts Mexico in their opening match.

Fans poured onto the streets of Johannesburg and Soweto in the early hours, many in pajamas, waving vuvuzelas, singing the Zulu chant “Shosholoza” and dancing to celebrate the historic achievement. President Cyril Ramaphosa praised the “inspired collective performance” on social media. Midfielder Sphephelo Yaya Sithole, who had been criticised after a poor debut, redeemed himself with a disciplined performance that helped protect the lead.

The win sets up a round‑of‑16 clash against Canada, marking a symbolic turnaround from South Africa’s disappointing 2010 host campaign.