South Africa sensationally reach World Cup 2026 knockout stage and will face Canada

South Africa became the biggest surprise of Group A at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In the final round, Bafana Bafana defeated South Korea 1-0 and finished second in the group, reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history.

Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal. After the match, the match-winner described the achievement as “a dream” and thanked the fans for their support both at the stadium and back home.

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos said his team produced a very strong defensive performance and gave their opponents almost no space to operate. According to him, the final 20 minutes after the goal were a real test, but the team withstood the pressure and held on for victory.

In the Round of 32, South Africa will face Canada. The match will take place in Los Angeles on Sunday.

In the other Group A match, Mexico confidently defeated Czechia 3-0. The tournament co-hosts had already secured first place in the group and played the match with major squad rotation.

After a goalless first half, Mexico completely changed the course of the game. Mateo Chavez opened the scoring after a pass from Raul Jimenez. A few minutes later, Julian Quinones doubled Mexico’s advantage, and Alvaro Fidalgo sealed the win in stoppage time.

Another notable moment was the appearance of Guillermo Ochoa. The legendary goalkeeper, who is playing at his sixth World Cup, came on as a substitute late in the match and made his 153rd appearance for Mexico.

Mexico advanced to the knockout stage as group winners and will face one of the best third-placed teams in the Round of 32. Czechia ended their tournament after the defeat.

South Korea, despite the loss, still retain a chance of reaching the knockout stage as a third-placed team. For now, they are ahead of only Scotland in the ranking of the best third-placed teams.

Group A third-round results

South Africa — South Korea — 1-0
Mexico — Czechia — 3-0