South Africa made history by reaching the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time with a 1-0 win over South Korea.
Following a scoreless opening half at Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico, Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal, steering Tshepang Moremi’s cross into the bottom-right corner from 15 yards out.
Earlier, Maseko saw a promising counterattack halted by Korean defender Lee Gi-hyuk.
Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu produced a superb double save to keep out Thalente Mbatha before denying Evidence Makgopa from close range.
South Korea entered the game only needing a draw to advance to the next stage of the competition, but could not find a way to draw level and must wait on other results to see if they progress as one of the best third-placed teams.
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The victory ensured South Africa finished in second place in Group A behind Mexico, who won all three of their early matches.
They will take on co-hosts Canada, who finished second place in Group B, on Sunday in Inglewood, California.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos said his emotions after the win were “difficult to describe”.
“It is a fantastic experience. We played really well and created chances,” he said. “We scored the goal and then it was 20 minutes with a very high heart rate.”
South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo said: “I believe the players gave everything they had, but it is disappointing that we conceded the opening goal.
“As for the disappointing result, that responsibility lies with me as the head coach.”
