• South Africa won 1-0 against South Korea, advancing to the World Cup knockout stage for the first time.
• Thapelo Maseko scored the winning goal in the 63rd minute of the match.
• South Korea's progression now depends on results from other matches as they face elimination.
• The match was held in Monterrey, Mexico, with a crucial showdown against co-hosts Canada next for South Africa.

South Africa achieved a historic milestone by defeating South Korea 1-0 and qualifying for the knockout phase of the World Cup for the first time. This milestone follows a challenging tournament where they had previously been eliminated in the group stages during their appearances in 1998, 2002, and 2010. Despite a loss to Mexico earlier, South Africa rallied to secure a vital win with Thapelo Maseko's decisive goal in the 63rd minute, sending them into the next round where they will face co-hosts Canada on June 28, according to channelnewsasia, Reuters, and Al Jazeera.

South Korea, who began the match positively, ultimately succumbed to South Africa's pressing gameplay. The team entered the match needing a win to guarantee progression but now risks elimination, depending on the outcomes of other matches to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. Coach Hong Myung-Bo's decision to start without star player Son Heung-min drew criticism, especially after South Korea’s inability to convert opportunities, as highlighted in their match strategy, according to channelnewsasia and channelnewsasia.

During the match, South Korea came close to scoring early on but failed to capitalize on their chances. Thapelo Maseko, however, found the net when Tshepang Moremi provided an assist, demonstrating effective teamwork and execution. The historical significance of this win is a cause for celebration in South Africa, with Coach Hugo Broos remarking on the team's tactical discipline and determination, contributing to their victory against a more experienced South Korean side, as reported by Al Jazeera and channelnewsasia.