World Cup: South Africa book Round of 32 spot ahead of South Korea

Hannover's center-back Ime Okon helped South Africa reach the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time in their history. Bafana Bafana finished Group A in second place after their narrow win over South Korea.

Bayern's Kim Min-jae started the game as captain since Son Heung-min only entered as a half-time substitute. Hong Myung-bo's triple changes also saw German-born Jens Castrop making his World Cup debut.

However, Thapelo Mokena's measured strike just after the hour mark pipped South Africa to a crucial win. Following their abysmal start to the tournament against co-hosts Mexico, South Africa finished second in the group against all odds.

Meanwhile, South Korea will wait until the end of the group stage to learn their fate. If they can finish with a better record than four third-placed teams, they will join Mexico and South Africa in the Round of 32.