South Africa shocked South Korea 1‑0 in Monterrey on Wednesday, clinching the three points needed to reach the World Cup round of 32. The lone goal came from Thapelo Maseko’s second‑half strike, ending Bafana’s goal drought since the Africa Cup of Nations. Coach Hugo Broos responded to fan pressure by starting Orlando Pirates winger Relebohile Mofokeng, whose energy helped lift the side.

Mofokeng entered as a substitute in the 1‑1 draw with Czechia and forced early chances, including a seventh‑minute header that flew wide. Evidence Makgopa also started, threatening with a near‑miss header from an Aubrey Modiba cross. South Korea left Son Heung‑min on the bench, a decision that proved costly as Bafana dominated possession and created the majority of shots.

The winning goal arrived in the 63rd minute after a clever cut‑back from Tshepang Moremi set up Maseko, who slotted home his first World Cup goal since 2010. South Korea pressed late, forcing a dramatic save from keeper Ronwen Williams in stoppage time. South Africa now travels to Los Angeles to meet Canada on June 28, securing a spot in the knockout phase.