South Africa secured its first knockout-round qualification at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing second in Group A behind Mexico.
The advancement sets up a Round of 32 clash against tournament co-hosts Canada on Sunday, June 28.
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The national team reached the second round by defeating South Korea 1-0 on Thursday, June 25, through a goal from winger Thapelo Maseko.
Head coach Hugo Broos guided the team to four points in the group stage following a 1-1 draw with Czechia and an opening 2-0 defeat against Mexico.
The early tournament loss drew significant public backlash toward the veteran Belgian manager, who has held his position for five years.
Despite calls from critics for his dismissal, the South African Football Association maintained support for the coach who brought the country back to the World Cup stage for the first time in 16 years.
Broos Responds to Criticism
“I’ve been coaching for nearly 40 years and I know there is a side to the job where you are criticised.
But people must know that I do things my way. I never listen to the trash on social media,” Broos said.
The manager noted that public sentiment fluctuates wildly depending on immediate match outcomes rather than long-term achievements.
He recalled being told that he deserved a monument after a decisive 3-0 victory over Rwanda secured World Cup qualification eight months prior.
“This is part of my job. I know that when you lose, you’re criticised and when you win you are the king.
