South Africa reach World Cup knockout phase for first time after South Korea shock | OneFootball

South Africa delivered the first major shock of this World Cup, beating South Korea 1-0 overnight to reach the knockout phase for the first time. El Periódico Mediterráneo notes that it is a landmark in the nation's World Cup history.

The night belonged to Thapelo Maseko, 22, on loan at AEL Limassol in Cyprus, where he shares a dressing room with Memo Ochoa, Mexico's goalkeeper. He scored despite a modest club season of two goals in 22 games.

South Africa had contested three World Cups previously without escaping the groups. In this fourth appearance, a draw with the Czech Republic and victory over South Korea sent Bafana Bafana into the last 32, where hosts Canada are their opponents.

As 2010 hosts, in a tournament won by Spain, they beat France and drew the opening match with Mexico. They still missed the last 16 on goal difference, finishing on four points, level with Mexico.

In 2002 the story was similar. They drew with Paraguay and beat Slovakia, but defeat to Spain left them third, one goal behind Paraguay, who advanced with four points.

Their first World Cup came in France 1998. Before that, FIFA had banned South Africa during apartheid, which ended in the early 1990s. After the democratic transition and Nelson Mandela's election, the team returned to FIFA competition.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo