South Africa secured their place in the knockout stage by defeating South Korea 1–0 in the final match of Group A. On June 11, in Kathmandu, South Africa advanced to the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup 2026 for the first time. In the decisive Group A game, Thapelo Maseco scored the lone goal for South Africa.
Maseco’s goal in the 63rd minute proved sufficient for the victory. Competing in their fourth World Cup, South Africa succeeded in moving past the group stage for the first time. Previously, in the 1998, 2002, and 2010 tournaments, South Africa failed to advance beyond the group stage.
With 4 points from 3 matches, South Africa qualified as the group runners-up for the knockout phase. Co-host Mexico led Group A with 9 points, also securing their knockout stage berth.
