A group-stage exit in 1998 had been a sobering lesson. South Africa returned in 2002 with renewed purpose. Under Jomo Sono, they were ready to write the next chapter.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 9 | 4 | 5 | 9 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 4 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 7 | -5 | 0 |
South Africa found moments of promise but ultimately fell short of the consistency needed to progress beyond the group stage. With 5 goals in 3 games, they carried a consistent attacking threat throughout.
South Africa experienced an inconsistent group stage, and the mixed results were not enough to go through. Their campaign featured a 2-2 draw with Paraguay, a hard-fought 1-0 win against Slovenia, and a narrow 2-3 loss to Spain. Despite moments of quality, it was not enough to advance, and South Africa's campaign ended at the the opening round.
1won1drawn1lost
5scored5conceded
Eliminated in the group stage.
Teboho Mokoena led South Africa's attack with 1 goal at the 2002 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Fortune, McCarthy, Radebe and Nomvethe, all with 1.
10yellow
3.3per match
Mokoena booked twice 4 cards in a single match vs Paraguay.
The tactical mind behind South Africa's 2002 campaign. Leading South Africa at his first World Cup 1 win, 1 draw, 1 loss under Sono.
South Africa's attack was led by Teboho Mokoena, Siyabonga Nomvethe, and Quinton Fortune who all scored one goal each. However the team struggled with defense issues and ultimately failed to advance from Group A.
