South Africa national football team Bafana Bafana advanced to the knockout phase of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a 1-0 victory over South Korea. Thapelo Maseko scored the winning goal in the 63rd minute.

What happened?

South Africa national football team Bafana Bafana opened their World Cup campaign with a 2-0 loss to Mexico, then earned a 1-1 draw with Czechia.

Why it matters for South Africa national football team Bafana Bafana

This win marks a historic moment for South Africa national football team Bafana Bafana, as they reach the knockout phase for the first time.

What comes next?

South Africa national football team Bafana Bafana will face Canada in the knockout stage on Sunday. As of June 25, 2026, the current standings are: | Team | GP | W | D | L | GD | P | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Mexico | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | +6 | 9 | | South Africa | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | -1 | 4 | | South Korea | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | -1 | 3 | | Czechia | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | -4 | 1 | South Africa national football team Bafana Bafana is ready for their next challenge.