Thapelo Maseko was mobbed by his teammates after firing into the bottom corner in the 63rd minute, a strike that sent South Africa into the World Cup knockout phase for the first time in their history with a 1-0 win over South Korea in Monterrey.
Jubilant scenes erupted on the pitch and back home, where fans took to the streets in their pyjamas to sing and dance – the match kicked off at 3am South Africa time, but that did not deter bleary-eyed supporters who left their houses in Soweto and other communities in nightgowns to celebrate at the final whistle.
“Thapelo Maseko's 63rd-minute goal gives South Africa a first World Cup knockout berth with 1-0 win over South Korea.”
South Africa had failed to advance from the group stage in their first three World Cup finals appearances, in 1998, 2002 and 2010 – the most hurtful failure coming in 2010 when they became the first host nation to miss out on the knockout rounds. That bitter pill was finally swallowed on Wednesday as Maseko’s goal secured four points, behind Group A winners Mexico, who beat Czechia 3-0. South Korea, who started with their talisman Son Heung-min on the bench, have three points but still have a chance of advancing as one of the eight best third-placed teams.
“It was a fantastic experience,” South Africa’s head coach, Hugo Broos, said. “It was so tough today, but it was a good game. I think tactically we were very good and it was difficult for South Korea to find space. We scored, then there were 20 minutes of heart‑stopping moments. It’s historical, and I’m very happy for the guys. I’ve been working with them for five years.”
South Africa will face the co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on Sunday. The former South Africa striker Marks Maponyane summed up the mood on Instagram: “It’s going to be a loooong day South Africa, but it i…”