South Africa Edge Past South Korea in Group Stage Clash
South Africa claimed a crucial 2-1 victory over South Korea in their World Cup 2026 group stage encounter, thanks to a late strike from substitute Lyle Foster. The match, played at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, saw Bafana Bafana take an early lead through Percy Tau before South Korea equalised via Son Heung-min. Foster's 84th-minute goal secured all three points for South Africa.
First Half: Tau Opens the Scoring
South Africa started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute. Percy Tau latched onto a through ball from Teboho Mokoena and slotted past South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu. The goal silenced the Korean fans in the stadium and gave Bafana Bafana a deserved advantage after dominating possession.
South Korea struggled to create clear chances in the first half, with their best effort coming from a Hwang Hee-chan shot that went wide. South Africa's defence, marshalled by captain Ronwen Williams, remained solid.
Second Half: Son Heung-min Equalises
South Korea came out with renewed energy after the break and equalised in the 58th minute. Son Heung-min, the Tottenham Hotspur star, collected a pass from Lee Kang-in and unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the box that beat South Africa goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma.
The goal shifted momentum, and South Korea pushed for a second. However, South Africa's counter-attacking threat kept them honest. Coach Hugo Broos introduced Foster in the 70th minute, a move that proved decisive.
Foster's Late Winner Seals Victory
With six minutes remaining, Foster latched onto a long ball from Mokoena, held off a defender, and fired low into the corner of the net. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the South African players and fans.
According to match statistics, South Africa had 45% possession and 10 shots on goal, while South Korea had 55% possession and 8 shots. The win puts South Africa in a strong position to advance from the group, while South Korea face an uphill battle.
