South Africa has made history by reaching the knockout phase of the FIFA World Cup for the first time ever. Here’s who Bafana Bafana face and all the details.
Bafana Bafana roar into the World Cup knockouts and the history books
Bafana Bafana produced a performance for the ages to nullify a talented South Korea side and claim a 1-0 win, which will reverberate around the world. They’ve reached the knockout phase of a men’s FIFA World Cup for the first time. Winning was South Africa’s only chance of progress, and they did just that in a raucous Estadio Monterrey, where the atmosphere was enhanced with news of Mexico’s goals in a 3-0 win over Czechia trickling through.
Hugo Broos’ side produced a defensive masterclass, dealing with whatever South Korea threw at them and then repeatedly looking dangerous on the counter. Thapelo Maseko was the match-winner with a 63rd-minute strike. In truth, the Sundowns man could have had a hat-trick. Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng caught the eye with his quick thinking, decision-making, penetrative passing and direct running. Maseko’s role as an inverted winger on the right side proved to be a constant thorn in the side of the Mexicans.
Who will South Africa face in the World Cup round of 32?
South Africa’s draw looks pretty favourable on paper. They meet Canada on Sunday, 28 June at 21:00 SA time. Pertinently, the match will be in Los Angeles, USA and not in Canada.