South Africa secured a historic place in the World Cup knockout stage for the first time with a 1–0 victory over South Korea in Monterrey on Thursday.
The result also marked a strong comeback for the 2010 World Cup hosts, who recovered from an opening-match defeat to finish the group strongly and qualify for the last 32.
South Korea, the 2002 World Cup semifinalists, created several chances in a lively first half but failed to convert their opportunities, while South Africa also missed key openings.
South Korea captain Son Heung-min came on as a second-half substitute in search of a breakthrough, but the change did not alter the flow of the match.
The decisive goal came in the 63rd minute when Thapelo Maseko finished from a cross delivered by Sepang Moremi, giving South Africa the lead.
South Korea pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages, but goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and the South African defence held firm to secure the win.
The victory confirmed South Africa’s qualification for the knockout stage. They will face co-hosts Canada in the last 32 on June 29.
Group leaders Mexico finished top with a perfect nine points after winning all three of their matches.
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