SEDIBENG.- Tshepang ‘Buda’ Moremi has made a memorable FIFA World Cup 2026 debut, becoming the third player from the Vaal to feature in the tournament.

His introduction proved historic, as South Africa beat South Korea 1-0 on Thursday to advance to the World Cup Last 32 for the first time in their history.

Moremi came on as a substitute for Oswin Appollis in the 62nd minute and made an immediate impact. Just moments after stepping onto the pitch, a combination of Vaal-born players secured the winning goal.

Moremi passed the ball to his hometown compatriot, Relebohile Mofokeng, who then set up Thapelo Maseko to score the goal that sent South Africa through.

They began their footballing journeys on the dusty pitches of Sharpeville and Sebokeng.

The lethal “Triple M” trio of Moremi, Mofokeng, and Maseko all hail from the Vaal Triangle.

They began their footballing journeys on the dusty pitches of Sharpeville and Sebokeng. Although Moremi did not feature in South Africa’s previous two matches against co-hosts Mexico and Czechia, his introduction against South Korea was the ultimate turning point. He entered the fray just when Bafana Bafana desperately needed a goal and delivered exactly what was required.

Following his standout performance, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos will certainly be spoiled for choice ahead of Sunday’s match against Canada.

Moremi’s development coach, Paul Motsepe, expressed his immense pride seeing one of his former players make such a special world cup debut.

Moremi initially started his amateur football career with Sharpeville Benfica FC.

Despite the match being played in the morning, celebrations erupted immediately after the final whistle. South Africans took to the streets in the early hours, with hooters blaring and vuvuzelas sounding across the nation to celebrate the historic victory.

Vaal Finest, Thapelo Maseko, Tshepang Moremi and Relebohile Mofokeng. Photo: Vino Snap (Vino Snap is Sports Photographer from Vaal is in Mexcico).