Bafana Bafana made history with stand-out performances from their Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns stars, as well as a couple of overseas-based players.
Coach Hugo Broos’ side defeated South Korea 1-0 on Wednesday to qualify for the Round of 32 for the first time in their World Cup history.
Every player stepped up for South Africa with stand-out performances from several players, most notably their Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns stars.
READ | FIFA World Cup 2026 | 13 teams into Round of 32, seven eliminated
SUPERB MAMELODI SUNDOWNS STARS STEP UP
Khuliso Mudau – 8.5/10
Mudau marshalled the defence superbly and had the South Korean attackers in his pocket for much of the contest.
He made several telling tackles, countless blocks and was dominant in the air.
Having come under criticism after his display against Mexico, the Sundowns defender responded in the perfect way with an immense all-round performance that should silence many of his doubters.
Aubrey Modiba – 8/10
Modiba delivered a performance very similar to Mudau’s, perhaps with slightly less defending to do – but not by much.
The left-back remained composed from start to finish in what was a defensive masterclass from South Africa.
He timed his interventions well, kept his shape and produced a memorable display in a massive match for Bafana Bafana.
BRILLIANT BUCS LEAD THE WAY
Relebohile Mofokeng – 8.5/10
This was undoubtedly one of Mofokeng’s best performances in a Bafana Bafana shirt.
The Orlando Pirates attacker looked increasingly confident as the match wore on and repaid Hugo Broos’ faith in him.
He played with the calmness and composure of a seasoned veteran, but still showed the fearlessness and flair of the prodigious talent he is.
Mofokeng helped control the tempo in midfield, picked out several incisive attacking passes and created dangerous openings for those around him.
He also showed maturity in knowing when to keep things simple and recycle possession.
He has played a major role in Bafana Bafana’s turnaround and route to the Round of 32 at FIFA World Cup 2026.
This was another huge statement performance.
Evidence Makgopa – 7/10
Makgopa missed a sitter. Thankfully, it was not costly.
Aside from that glaring chance, he put in a strong shift up front.
He dominated aerial duels, worked tirelessly off the ball and helped win possession high up the pitch, creating space on the counter for the likes of Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis and Maseko.
Oswin Appollis – 7.5/10
Appollis was lively throughout and constantly looked to stretch South Korea with intelligent runs into space.
He linked up beautifully with Mofokeng and Maseko, while also showing good decision-making in the final third.
He knew when to drive forward and when to play the safer pass, giving Bafana Bafana both energy and control in attacking areas.
Thalente Mbatha – 8/10
Mbatha put in a midfield masterclass.
The Orlando Pirates midfielder was calm, composed and authoritative in possession, while also doing plenty of dirty work out of it.
He helped launch several counter-attacks, intercepted passes, competed strongly in the air and showed excellent judgement in knowing when to drive forward and when to slow things down.
What a year it has been for the Bucs midfielder.
INSPIRATIONAL INTERNATIONAL-BASED INFLUENCE
Thapelo Maseko – 8/10 (AEL Limassol, Cyprus)
Maseko scored the goal that mattered most for Bafana Bafana and South African football history.
His solo strike in the 63rd minute proved decisive, and he threatened the South Korean defence throughout the match.
He could – and perhaps should – have scored in the first half when he predictably cut back in and onto his left foot. He also spurned a golden chance early in the second period when he opted not to square the ball.
Still, he constantly took on defenders, beat his man at will and ultimately proved to be the difference-maker on the night.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi – 8.5/10 (Chicago Fire, USA)
Mbokazi was immense at the back.
The Chicago Fire defender read the game brilliantly and seemed to anticipate danger before it arrived.
He made countless tackles, blocks and interceptions, while also proving dominant in the air.
His confidence continues to grow, as does his reputation, and he showed exactly why he was voted into the MLS All-Star team.
There is no doubt Orlando Pirates let go of a gem.
However, in Mbokazi, Bafana Bafana and Hugo Broos have unearthed a diamond who has shined when it mattered most.
WHICH BAFANA BAFANA STARS STOOD OUT FOR YOU AND WHAT WOULD YOU RATE THEIR PERFORMANCE OUT OF 10?
Give us your views in the comments section below …
