Bafana Bafana secured their place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time in history after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday morning.
A second-half strike from Thapelo Maseko proved enough to hand Hugo Broos‘ men all three points and seal second place in Group A behind Mexico. South Africa will now face Canada in the Round of 32.
Broos opted for an attacking line-up and was rewarded with one of the most memorable victories in South African football history.
Here are three key reasons why Bafana overcame South Korea.
Midfield Dominance
Despite the absence of suspended midfielder Teboho Mokoena, Bafana controlled the midfield battle for large periods of the match.
The South Africans disrupted the rhythm of South Korea’s creative players, including Lee Kang-in and Hwang In-beom, who struggled to influence proceedings.
Sphephelo Sithole bounced back impressively on his return to the starting line-up, while Bathusi Aubaas and Thalente Mbatha provided energy, aggression and composure in possession.
Their physical presence and ability to win second balls gave Bafana a platform to dictate the contest, with South Korea coming out second best.
Pace on the Counter-Attack
With control established in midfield, South Africa constantly threatened whenever they broke forward.
The pace and direct running of Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis and Maseko caused endless problems for the Korean defence.
Every turnover looked dangerous as Bafana transitioned quickly from defence to attack. In truth, South Africa could have put the match beyond doubt before half-time had they been more clinical in front of goal.
Bafana Bossed South Korea at times
A Rock-Solid Defence
While the midfield and attack grabbed the headlines, Bafana’s defensive unit laid the foundation for the victory.
South Korea’s attacking threats, including Hwang Hee-chan and Oh Hyeon-gyu, were largely ineffective throughout the encounter. Even captain Son Heung-min was unable to change the game after being introduced.
The centre-back pairing of Ime Okon and Mbekezeli Mbokazi dealt confidently with aerial threats, while Khuliso Mudau delivered an outstanding performance at right-back, consistently shutting down crosses and dangerous runs from the Korean attackers.
Having overcome South Korea, Bafana Bafana now turn their attention to Canada, with a place in the last 16 up for grabs when the two sides meet on Sunday evening.