Bafana Bafana secured their place in the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup for the first time in history after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday morning.
A 63rd-minute strike from Thapelo Maseko proved enough to seal all three points as South Africa finished second in Group A.
It is the third time Bafana have finished a World Cup group stage on four points. However, unlike their previous appearances, four points were enough this time to secure progression to the Round of 32.
South Africa finished behind group winners Mexico, who ended the group stage with a perfect nine points.
Here are the Bafana Bafana player ratings against South Korea:
Ronwen Williams – 7/10
The Bafana captain was largely untroubled throughout the match but produced an important save in the first half when called upon. He almost made a costly error late on but recovered well to gather the ball and preserve South Africa’s lead.
Khuliso Mudau – 9/10
Mudau delivered his best performance of the tournament. The right-back was excellent defensively and dealt impressively with the threat of Son Heung-min. After a difficult start to the World Cup, he redeemed himself with a defensive masterclass.
Ime Okon – 7/10
The towering defender looked composed and assured at the back. His aerial presence was crucial as he comfortably dealt with crosses and set-pieces throughout the contest.
Bafana tame South Korea to reach next round
Mbekezeli Mbokazi – 8/10
Mbokazi continued his impressive tournament with another solid display. He handled South Korea’s direct balls effectively and used his physicality well to win crucial duels and frustrate the opposition attackers.
Aubrey Modiba – 6/10
Modiba has endured a difficult tournament, but his work rate and determination were evident once again. Although he picked up a yellow card after a clumsy challenge, he remained committed defensively and will look to improve in the next round.
Sphephelo Sithole – 8/10
After struggling against Mexico, Sithole bounced back brilliantly. The midfielder was dominant in aerial battles, strong in possession and rarely put a foot wrong. It was one of his most complete performances in a Bafana shirt.
Thalente Mbatha – 6/10
Mbatha brought energy and physicality to the midfield battle. While he occasionally gave possession away too easily, he competed well and nearly opened the scoring with a powerful effort that forced a save in the first half.
Relebohile Mofokeng – 8/10
Making his first World Cup start, Mofokeng looked right at home on the biggest stage. His movement, creativity and passing caused constant problems for the Korean defence and played a key role in South Africa’s attacking play.
Mofokeng and Maseko on form as Bafana edge out South Korea
Oswin Appollis – 5/10
It was a frustrating outing for Appollis. He struggled to maintain possession and failed to make the impact he would have wanted in the final third. He was substituted at half-time.
Thapelo Maseko – 9/10
The match-winner was South Africa’s most dangerous player throughout the game. Maseko constantly threatened the Korean defence with his pace and movement and finally got his reward with a superbly taken goal.
Had he been more clinical with some of his earlier opportunities, he could easily have earned a perfect score. Nevertheless, his performance was outstanding and he fully deserved the Man of the Match honours.
Evidence Makgopa – 7/10
Makgopa worked tirelessly up front and kept the Korean defenders occupied for much of the match. He won numerous aerial duels, linked play effectively and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself. His defensive contribution was equally valuable as he completed the full 90 minutes.
Bafana Bafana’s victory over South Korea sends them into the Round of 32, where they will face tournament hosts Canada on Sunday evening for a place in the last 16.
