Thapelo Maseko’s second half winner secured South Africa’s first ever place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage, while Korea Republic must wait to learn if they progress as one of the best third placed teams….reports London Daily News Desk
South Africa booked a place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history after Thapelo Maseko’s second half strike secured a 1 0 victory over Korea Republic in their final Group A match.
The historic win saw South Africa finish as Group A runners up and qualify for the Round of 32, while Korea Republic’s hopes of progressing now depend on whether their record is good enough to earn one of the tournament’s eight best third placed spots.
South Africa made the brighter start and created the first clear opportunities of the contest. Maseko nearly broke through on a swift counter attack before his run was halted by defender Lee Gihyuk.
Goalkeeper Kim Seunggyu then kept Korea in the game with two impressive saves, first denying Thalente Mbatha’s long range effort before producing a sharp stop from close range to keep out Evidence Makgopa.
Needing a victory to improve their qualification chances, Korea coach Hong Myungbo made an attacking triple substitution after the interval, introducing captain Son Heungmin in an attempt to change the course of the match.
Despite Korea’s attacking intent, it was South Africa who found the decisive breakthrough.
Substitute Teshpang Moremi surged down the left flank before delivering a low cross towards the edge of the penalty area. Maseko controlled the ball, shifted it onto his left foot and calmly slotted a low finish inside the near post to spark jubilant celebrations among the South African players and supporters.
The goal also marked a personal milestone for Maseko, who became South Africa’s second youngest scorer at a FIFA World Cup at the age of 22 years and 225 days.
Speaking after the historic victory, Maseko said the achievement was a reward for the team’s resilience despite doubts over their chances.
“It’s unbelievable; it feels like a dream. Thank you to the fans; they gave it their all. This is for everyone who supported us but also for those who didn’t.
“There were many people who didn’t believe in us. We went through some rough patches. But this team showed that they are capable and strong,” he said.
South Africa’s disciplined defensive display ensured they preserved their lead despite Korea’s late pressure, securing a memorable victory that sends them into the knockout rounds for the first time.
As Group A runners up, South Africa will now face Group B runners up Canada in the Round of 32 in Los Angeles on June 29.
For Korea Republic, the defeat leaves their World Cup future uncertain. They must now wait for the completion of the remaining group stage fixtures to discover whether their points and goal difference are enough to qualify as one of the tournament’s best third placed teams.
