It was a performance that demanded courage and composure from every player in green and gold, and Hugo Broos’ men delivered under pressure in Monterrey on Thursday morning. South Africa created opportunities to win by a bigger margin, but in the end Thapelo Maseko’s decisive second-half strike proved enough to secure a famous victory.

Below, we rate each player’s performance out of 10.

Ronwen Williams – 7/10

The captain produced another composed display between the posts and led from the front with his organisation and communication. While South Korea did not create an overwhelming number of clear-cut opportunities, Williams remained alert throughout and showed his experience whenever pressure mounted. He made sensible decisions in possession and avoided unnecessary risks, helping Bafana maintain control.

Khuliso Mudau – 8/10

One of South Africa’s standout performers on the day. Mudau looked assured defensively and dealt effectively with South Korea’s wide threats. Going forward, he also played an important role in progressing possession and linking attacks. His balance between defensive responsibility and attacking contribution made this arguably his strongest display of the tournament so far.

Ime Okon – 7.5/10

The young defender continues to grow with every match. Okon showed maturity beyond his years, reading the game well and remaining composed under pressure. He was dominant in aerial situations and handled South Korea’s attacking movements confidently, further strengthening his reputation after another excellent outing.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi – 7.5/10

Alongside Okon, Mbokazi formed a dependable defensive partnership that kept South Korea largely quiet. His positioning was excellent and he rarely looked troubled throughout the contest. Calm in possession and decisive in challenges, Mbokazi helped Bafana register their first clean sheet of the tournament.

Aubrey Modiba – 7/10

Modiba delivered another encouraging performance at left-back. Having come into the tournament managing concerns around a hamstring issue, he looked increasingly comfortable and energetic. He contributed defensively while also offering support in attacking phases, showing signs that he is finding his rhythm at the right time.

Sphephelo Sithole – 7.5/10

After enduring disappointment against Mexico, Sithole responded impressively. His work rate in midfield stood out as he consistently pressed, recovered possession and disrupted South Korea’s rhythm. He brought aggression and energy while remaining disciplined throughout the match.

Thalente Mbatha – 7.5/10

Operating in a more advanced midfield role due to Teboho Mokoena’s absence, Mbatha adapted well and produced a hardworking performance. He contributed creatively and helped connect midfield to attack. Although fatigue became visible late in the match as Bafana sat deeper, his overall contribution was significant.

Relebohile Mofokeng – 7/10

Mofokeng was central to many of South Africa’s best attacking moments, particularly in the first half. His movement and ability to pick out teammates caused problems for South Korea’s defensive structure. While he did not register a direct goal contribution, his influence in creating openings was important.

Oswin Appollis – 6/10

Appollis brought energy and intent but lacked precision in decisive moments. He worked hard and combined well with teammates in attacking transitions but struggled to deliver the final pass or create a clear end product before being substituted.

Evidence Makgopa – 6.5/10

It was a difficult outing for the striker despite his effort levels. Makgopa worked hard to occupy defenders but missed opportunities that could have made the result more comfortable. A first-half chance and a header that drifted wide summed up an evening where things did not quite click in front of goal.

Thapelo Maseko – 8.5/10

The match winner and Bafana’s standout performer. Maseko constantly stretched the South Korean defence with his pace and direct running. Although he missed chances earlier in the game, he kept pushing and was rewarded in the 63rd minute with the goal that secured South Africa’s place in the World Cup knockout rounds and wrote his name into the history books.

Substitutes

Tshepang Moremi – 7/10

His contribution was instant as he provided the assist for the goal. The winger was problematic for the South Koreans with his pace and skills.

Stanley Nwabali has high praise for Mamelodi Sundowns skipper Ronwen Williams