
South Africa became the second African nation to secure a place in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging South Korea 1-0 on Thursday.
A second-half strike from Thapelo Maseko proved decisive as Bafana Bafana claimed all three points and finished second in Group A with four points.
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Mexico topped the group with a perfect nine points after defeating Czechia 3-0 in their final group match.
South Africa’s qualification means they join Morocco as the two African countries that have advanced to the knockout stage of the tournament so far.
Morocco had earlier booked their place in the Round of 32 following a 4-2 victory over Haiti. The North African side finished second in Group C with seven points, behind group leaders Brazil.
The achievements of South Africa and Morocco mark a positive outing for African football at the expanded 2026 World Cup as both nations continue their quest for success in the knockout rounds.
