World Cup 2026: South Africa 1-0 South Korea Player Ratings

South Africa reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history after defeating South Korea 1-0 in a dramatic Group A finale at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey. Thapelo Maseko’s second-half winner secured a famous victory for Hugo Broos’ side, who finished second behind Mexico and booked a Round of 32 clash with Canada.

Match Report

Bafana Bafana entered the match knowing that victory was essential, and they responded with one of the finest performances in South African football history. South Korea enjoyed more possession, but South Africa looked dangerous whenever they attacked in transition.

The first half ended goalless, with Ronwen Williams and South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu both producing important saves. Oswin Appollis and Thapelo Maseko repeatedly tested the Korean defence with their pace and direct running.

The decisive moment arrived in the 63rd minute. Tshepang Moremi burst forward on the counterattack before delivering a perfect ball into the area for Maseko, who calmly finished to send South African supporters into wild celebrations. It proved to be the goal that changed the nation’s football history.

South Korea threw everything forward during the closing stages, introducing Son Heung-min and Cho Gue-sung from the bench, but Williams and his defenders stood firm to preserve a priceless clean sheet.

South Africa Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Ronwen Williams – 7.9

A captain’s performance. Produced crucial saves late in the match and commanded his penalty area superbly.

Defence

Mbekezeli Mbokazi – 7.2

Solid throughout and dealt well with South Korea’s attacking pressure.

Aubrey Modiba – 7.5

Picked up a yellow card but remained one of Bafana Bafana’s best defenders.

Ime Okon – 6.9

A composed performance in possession and defence.

Khuliso Mudau – 7.2

Offered support in advanced positions and worked tirelessly.

Midfield

Thalente Mbatha – 6.8

Provided energy and discipline in midfield.

Sphephelo Sithole – 7.0

Shielded the defence effectively and broke up numerous attacks.

Thapelo Maseko – 7.7

Scored the winning goal and was South Africa’s biggest attacking threat before being substituted.

Relebohile Mofokeng – 7.2

Worked tirelessly and helped stretch the Korean defence with his movement.

Oswin Appollis – 6.9

A lively display on the wing, creating opportunities and drawing defenders out of position.

Attack

Evidence Makgopa – 6.8

Worked hard as the focal point of the attack and occupied defenders throughout the contest.

Substitutes

Tshepang Moremi – 7.3

Made an immediate impact with the assist for Maseko’s winner and added fresh energy.

Iqraam Rayners – 6.7

Helped South Africa manage the final stages after replacing the goalscorer.

Jayden Adams – 6.5

Provided fresh legs in midfield during the closing minutes.

Verdict

Ronwen Williams justified his rating with another outstanding display, while Thapelo Maseko delivered the historic goal that sent South Africa into the knockout rounds for the first time. Aubrey Modiba and Tshepang Moremi also played crucial roles in a victory that will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in Bafana Bafana history.