Group A reaches its dramatic conclusion at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as South Africa and South Korea battle for a place in the Round of 32.

With Mexico facing Czechia in the other decisive match, the Bafana Bafana found the breakthrough thanks to Thapelo Maseko.

South Africa vs South Korea: All Goals

South Africa Goal

63' Thapelo Maseko shoots inside the box and Bafana Bafana lead Korea 1-0

Kim Seung-Gyu saved Korea

The goalkeeper made a double save to keep a clean sheet

South Korea missed a chance to open the scoring

The Asian side pressed hard, but only came close to breaking the deadlock.

Maseko Brings South Africa Closer to the Round of 32

With the opening goal, South Africa takes a huge step toward qualification for the Round of 32.

The Bafana Bafana entered the final group-stage match knowing their fate was in their own hands, and Maseko's strike puts them in a strong position to extend their World Cup journey.

🏟️ When and Where

South Africa and South Korea will face off on June 24 in the final matchday of Group A at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match will be played at Monterrey Stadium in Monterrey, Mexico.

Kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT, with Argentine referee Facundo Tello assigned to officiate the match.

📺 How and Where to Watch Czech Republic vs Mexico

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🇿🇦 South Africa's Preview

South Africa enters this match with a tremendous sense of urgency. Bafana Bafana has collected just one point through its first two matches after losing to Mexico in the opening game of the tournament and drawing with the Czech Republic in its second outing.

Those results leave Hugo Broos' side with little room for error. South Africa realistically needs a victory to keep its hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds alive, meaning the team will be forced to approach this match aggressively from the opening whistle.

That desperation could make Bafana Bafana a dangerous opponent. With elimination staring them in the face, South Africa will have no choice but to throw everything forward in search of three points.

🇰🇷 Korea Republic's Preview

South Korea arrives in a much more comfortable position. The Taegeuk Warriors opened their campaign with a victory over the Czech Republic before suffering a defeat against host nation Mexico in their second group-stage match.

As a result, qualification remains firmly in South Korea's hands entering the final matchday. A draw could be enough to send the Asian side into the knockout rounds depending on other results, although Hong Myung-bo's team will undoubtedly be targeting all three points.

With one of the most talented squads in Asia and plenty of World Cup experience, South Korea knows a victory would remove any uncertainty and allow it to advance with confidence.

⭐ Players to Watch

🇿🇦 Lyle Foster

Lyle Foster remains South Africa's biggest attacking threat and the player most capable of changing the course of a match. The Burnley forward combines pace, physicality, and finishing ability, making him a constant danger whenever he gets space in the final third.

With South Africa needing goals to keep its World Cup dreams alive, much of the team's offensive responsibility will fall on Foster's shoulders. Bafana Bafana will be hoping their star striker can deliver when it matters most.

🇰🇷 Son Heung-min

There is no bigger name in South Korean football than Son Heung-min. The veteran forward has been the face of the Taegeuk Warriors for years and remains the player most capable of deciding matches at the highest level.

Whether creating opportunities for teammates or scoring goals himself, Son continues to be the focal point of Hong Myung-bo's attack. If South Korea secures qualification, there is a strong chance that its captain will once again be at the center of the action.

🎯 Final Analysis

South Korea enters the match as the clear favorite according to most sportsbooks. The Asian side has looked more balanced throughout the group stage and possesses the experience and attacking quality needed to handle a high-pressure encounter.

However, South Africa's status as the underdog could make Bafana Bafana extremely dangerous. With their tournament lives on the line and nothing to lose, the Africans are expected to play with urgency and intensity. That combination should produce one of the most intriguing matches of the final Group A matchday.

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