20 minutes of heart beating — Hugo Broos savours South Africa's nervy win over Korea Republic

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has admitted the closing stages of his side’s historic victory over Korea Republic felt like “twenty minutes of heart beating.”

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that the Belgian watched as his Bafana Bafana held on to a 1-0 lead to secure their first ever progression beyond the World Cup group stage.

Speaking to FIFA after the match, Broos praised his team’s defensive discipline and grit. 

“We played a very good game. It was very difficult for Korea Republic to find the space and we defended well,” he said in his post‑match TV interview. 

“We scored the goal, and then it was twenty minutes of heart beating and waiting for the final whistle.”

Broos reflected on the squad’s trajectory through the tournament, acknowledging a shaky start but stressing steady improvement. “The first game was not good, but we've got better and better. We'll enjoy the next game, and who knows? Maybe we can go to the second knockout round.”

The coach’s composure reflected the mood in the South African camp after Thapelo Maseko’s 63rd minute strike, a pinpoint finish from a Tshepang Moremi cross, proved enough to sink South Korea.

Despite nearly 70% possession for the Taegeuk Warriors late on, Broos’ side soaked up pressure and defended resolutely to protect their lead.

For Broos, who guided Bafana Bafana to an unprecedented Round of 32 berth, the victory was both vindication and a statement. 

His players delivered the tactical discipline he demanded and held their nerve under intense late pressure; those 20 minutes, he suggested, were worth every second.

South Africa now prepare to face Canada in Los Angeles in the Round of thirty‑two, while Broos and his squad will savour the moment before turning their attention to the tougher tests ahead.