Many South Africans sacrificed their sleep and stayed awake until the early hours of this morning (Thursday, June 25) to cheer on South Africa as they took on South Korea in what was a must-win match for Bafana Bafana and in the end, they were rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime, especially the beautifully worked goal by Thapelo Maseko. As the final whistle sounded shortly before 5am, celebrations erupted across the country as Bafana Bafana defeated South Korea 1-0 to secure their spot in the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds for the very first time in their history. For years, South African football fans have pondered on what could have been; the heartbreak of 2002 and again in 2010, when Bafana came agonisingly close to progressing beyond the group stages on home soil, only to fall short on goal difference. This time, however, after 16 years away from the World Cup, Hugo Broos’ men made sure history would not repeat itself. Knowing that only a win would truly keep their World Cup hopes alive, Bafana produced a determined and disciplined performance against a technically gifted South Korean side. The South Africans defended resolutely, worked tirelessly in midfield and created enough chances to secure a famous victory that will be remembered as one of the greatest ‘nights’ in the country’s football history. The victory means South Africa advance beyond the group stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time. Previous appearances in France (1998), Korea/Japan (2002) and as hosts in 2010 all ended in group-stage elimination, making this achievement one of the most significant milestones in Bafana Bafana’s history. With the result seeing Bafana Bafana finish as runners-up in Group A, they will face Canada in the Round of 32 on Sunday (June 28) at the SoFI Stadium in Los Angeles. Kick off is at 9pm SAST.