For the first time in their history, South Africa walked onto the World Cup stage. Philippe Troussier led the squad into the unknown.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 9 | 1 | 8 | 9 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 6 | -3 | 2 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 7 | -5 | 1 |
South Africa's campaign never truly ignited, and a group stage exit brought an early end to their World Cup hopes.
South Africa endured a difficult group stage, unable to advance despite moments of resistance. Their campaign featured a heavy 0-3 defeat to France, a 1-1 draw with Denmark, and a 2-2 draw with Saudi Arabia. South Africa's tournament ended at the the opening round, a campaign that never truly got going.
2drawn1lost
3scored6conceded
Winless throughout 2 draws in their maiden World Cup — competitive but unable to break through.
Shaun Bartlett led South Africa's attack with 2 goals at the 1998 World Cup.
7yellow1red
2.7per match
Phiri sent off vs Denmark Radebe booked twice.
The tactical mind behind South Africa's 1998 campaign. Guided South Africa to their first World Cup a French at the helm.
Although the team showed flashes of promise, South Africa struggled to find rhythm and create scoring opportunities. Their attacking play was often disjointed, with limited movement between midfielders and forwards.
