The oldest ever! Hugo Broos is scripting FIFA World Cup history as South Africa reach elimination for the first time

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos, right, celebrates with a member of the team. (AP photo) South Africa etched their name into FIFA World Cup history after securing first place in the knockout stages with a commanding 1-0 victory over South Korea, while head coach Hugo Broos added another remarkable chapter to his storied career by becoming the oldest manager ever to win a World Cup match at 74 years and 75 days.The historic triumph secured Bafana Bafana second place in Group A behind Mexico, who won all three of their group stage matches. South Africa will now face Group B runners-up Canada in the round of 32 on Sunday in Inglewood, California.An emotional Broos admitted the success fulfilled the team’s primary objective upon arriving in Mexico, describing the final whistle as one of the defining moments of his coaching career.“It was an emotional moment. We came here to Mexico and we wanted to survive the group stage,” said Broos. “It wasn’t just because we won the game, but because it’s probably going to be one of the last games of my career. When you can end your career like that, I think that’s every coach’s dream.”

Maseko brings a historical breakthrough as a strength of faith

The decisive moment came in the 63rd minute when 22-year-old Thapelo Maseko pounced on Tshepang Moremi’s accurate cross, cut inside and fired a left-footed shot through the defender’s legs into the bottom corner. The goal made Maseko the second youngest South African goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history at 22 years and 225 days.Despite missing two earlier opportunities, the Mamelodi Sundowns striker finished with five strikes and now leads South Africa with eight tries in the tournament.Reflecting on his journey, Maseko said, “One thing I would say is to keep dreaming.”Broos praised the tactical discipline and collective commitment of his side.“I think we played a very good game tactically. Everyone did their job. I’m very proud of my team’s performance,” he said. “When they had the ball, we covered all the spaces. When we had possession, we became dangerous because we took advantage of the spaces they gave us.”South Africa began their campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Mexico before rescuing a late 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic, needing a win over South Korea to stay alive. The response, Broos said, reflected the team’s unwavering mentality.“Today you saw a team that believed in themselves. The mentality in this group is amazing. Everyone works for everyone. We are not afraid of other teams.”