World Cup 2026: It’s Historic –Broos Celebrates South Africa’s Qualification To Knockout Stages

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has expressed delight after guiding the Bafana Bafana to their first knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

A goal from Thapelo Maseko in the 63rd minute was enough to help South Africa defeat South Korea 1-0 and finish in second place in Group A behind Mexico, which won all three of its group-stage games.

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After securing a second-place finish in Group A, Broos noted that the primary objective has always been to survive the group stage.

The Belgian tactician, who praised the players’ never-say-die spirit, also expressed joy to have qualified the team for their first-ever knockout stages.

“I know how it feels, but it’s very difficult to explain. It’s a fantastic experience. It was so tough today, but we played a very good game. We had chances, and tactically, I think we made it very good. It was very difficult for South Korea to find space,” Broos told Fox.

“We defended good, and in transitions, we were dangerous. That’s what we wanted to do today. We scored that goal, and then it was 20 minutes of heart beating and hoping that the game would be over as soon as possible.

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“So, yes, we are in the second round. It’s historic. But for the guys, I’m very happy for the guys. I’ve worked with them for five years, and what we did in those five years is amazing.”

South Africa will take on Canada, the second-place finisher in Group B, in a knockout game Sunday at Inglewood, California.