Bafana Bafana match-winner Thapelo Maseko has broken his silence after firing South Africa into the FIFA World Cup knockout stages, revealing how the squad used criticism as fuel to make history.
The speedy winger etched his name into South African football folklore when he scored the decisive second-half goal to hand Bafana a famous 1-0 victory over South Korea, sealing the nation’s first-ever qualification for the World Cup knockout rounds.
Speaking moments after the final whistle, an emotional Maseko admitted the achievement still hadn’t sunk in.
“It is unbelievable. It feels like a dream,” said the 22-year-old hero who was named Man-of-the-Match.
“But all the credit goes to the guys. The defence gave everything today. This victory is for everyone who supported us — and even for those who didn’t.”
Maseko then aimed a subtle dig at the doubters who had already written Bafana off after their opening defeat to Mexico.
“They gave us only a seven percent chance of getting out of the group. But here we are,” he said.
“We are grateful for the support from South Africans, and now we just keep going.”
The winger also reflected on the difficult days that followed the defeat to Mexico, when the team became the target of heavy criticism and ridicule on social media.
“We went through a rough period. After the first game, the media was bashing us. We became memes, we were trending, but this team showed its character, its strength and what we are capable of.”
His message to the nation was short but powerful: “Thank you… and enjoy this moment.”
After making history, Bafana Bafana will now turn their attention to the knockout stages, carrying with them the belief that they can continue their dream run on football’s biggest stage.