Thapelo Maseko
RW
Wide Forward
Nov 11, 2003 (22)
Left
5'10"
Makes four tackles against Canada
Maseko recorded four tackles (one won), one clearance and one interception in Sunday's 1-0 loss against Canada.
Analysis: Maseko recorded four tackles and three successful dribbles in South Africa's loss to Canada, bringing an active close to his tournament. His World Cup campaign ends with one of the nation's only two goals, coming from eight total shots, along with 12 duels won, six recoveries, and a created chance across three matches, marking a solid and energetic effort in the three games played.
Nets decisive goal
Maseko scored one goal to go with five shots (one on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and one corner in Wednesday's 1-0 win against South Korea.
Analysis: Maseko was the decisive figure in Wednesday's 1-0 win over South Korea, scoring the only goal of the match in the second half by controlling Tshepang Moremi's pass inside the area and finishing first-time at the near post past the South Korean goalkeeper, capping a performance in which he registered five shots (one on target), one cross, one corner and one chance created across his 75 minutes before being replaced. The winger was South Africa's most dangerous wide threat throughout the match, consistently driving at the South Korean defensive line and being the player most fouled on the pitch, with his persistence and directness rewarded with the goal that sent Bafana Bafana into the knockout rounds for the first time in their history. His goal-scoring ability, pressing intensity and direct running from wide positions make him South Africa's most clinical attacking option heading into the round of 32 against Canada, where a similar individual performance could be the difference in what is expected to be one of the most evenly contested last-32 fixtures of the tournament.
Active in final third
Maseko recorded three shots (zero on goal) and one cross (zero accurate) in Thursday's 1-1 draw against Czech Republic.
Analysis: Maseko was one of the few productive weapons South Africa had in the attack, and he was one of three players who recorded at least three shots. Given the team's improvements compared to the opening loss to Mexico, it wouldn't be surprising if Maseko stays in the XI for the match against South Korea on Wednesday, June 24.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare