Belgian coach Broos leads South Africa into World Cup knockout stage

Belgian coach Hugo Broos guided South Africa into the World Cup knockout stage for the first time on Wednesday after a 1-0 win over South Korea in Monterrey, Mexico.

South Africa finished second in Group A with four points, behind hosts Mexico, and advanced to the last 16 in their fourth World Cup appearance.

“I know how it feels but it is difficult to explain”, Broos told television reporters after the match. “It is a fantastic experience. It was so tough today but we played a very good game and had chances and were tactically very good. It was very difficult for South Korea to find space. We defended well and were dangerous.”

The winning goal was scored by Thapelo Maseko in the second half. South Africa had been written off after a 2-0 defeat to Mexico in their opening game but recovered with a draw against the Czech Republic and victory over South Korea.

“I am very proud of my team,” Broos said. “I think we gave an answer to all those big mouths who thought we had to change something.”

The 74-year-old Belgian, in charge since 2021, also praised the close bond within the squad.

South Africa will face Canada in the last 16 on Sunday in Los Angeles.

South Korea, who finished on three points, must wait to see if they qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. Coach Hong Myung-bo said he was disappointed with the result and accepted responsibility for the defeat.

^{South Africa's head coach Hugo Broos talks to his players during a hydration break of the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between South Africa and South Korea © Julio Cesar AGUILAR / AFP}