South Africa secured a historic place in the World Cup knockout stage after defeating South Korea 1-0 in a decisive Group A clash on Wednesday.
The victory marked the first time Bafana Bafana have progressed beyond the group stage at a FIFA World Cup.
South Africa returned to the tournament for the first time since hosting the competition in 2010.
Their campaign began poorly with a 2-0 defeat to group leaders Mexico in the opening match.
Many observers doubted their chances of advancing after that disappointing result.
However, a determined draw against the Czech Republic revived their hopes ahead of the crucial encounter with South Korea.
With second place in the group at stake, South Africa produced a disciplined performance in Monterrey.
Thapelo Maseko emerged the hero after scoring the match-winning goal in the second half.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos described the achievement as a special moment for the team.
“We scored that goal, and it was 20 minutes of heartbeating and hoping that the game should be finished as soon as possible,” he said.
“So yes, we are in the second round. It’s historic.”
The Belgian tactician praised his players for their progress over the past five years.
“But I’m very happy for the guys. I’ve worked with them for five years,” Broos said.
“And what we did in those five years is amazing.”
South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo surprised many by leaving captain Son Heung-min out of the starting line-up.
The experienced forward is widely regarded as one of Asia’s greatest footballers.
South Korea began the match strongly and nearly opened the scoring in the early stages.
A powerful header from stand-in captain Kim Min-jae was cleared off the line by Aubrey Modiba.
Moments later, Lee Kang-in came close but failed to hit the target.
South Africa gradually settled into the contest and began creating dangerous opportunities.
Despite their attacking approach, they struggled to convert their chances.
The best opening of the first half fell to Evidence Makgopa in the 30th minute.
Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu parried a shot from Thalente Mbatha into Makgopa’s path.
However, the striker could only direct his effort straight at the goalkeeper from close range.
Seeking inspiration, Hong introduced Son Heung-min at the start of the second half.
The South Korean coach made three substitutions in an effort to change the game.
Early after the restart, Maseko missed another promising opportunity for South Africa.
At the opposite end, Oh Hyeon-gyu tested goalkeeper Ronwen Williams with a dangerous effort.
As updates emerged from Mexico City, the pressure increased on both teams.
Mexico were leading the Czech Republic, making the race for second place even more intense.
South Africa finally broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute.
Tshepang Moremi delivered a precise cross into the penalty area.
Maseko remained composed and fired his shot inside the near post to spark celebrations.
The goal proved decisive as South Africa defended resolutely during the closing stages.
South Korea pushed forward in search of an equaliser but could not find a breakthrough.
The final whistle confirmed one of the greatest achievements in South African football history.
South Africa will now face co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32 on June 28 in Los Angeles.
Mexico finished top of Group A after winning all three matches and collecting nine points.
For South Africa, the victory completed a remarkable turnaround from opening-match disappointment to World Cup history.
