Leeds United - on this day: Lucas Radebe crashes out of the World Cup with South Africa

Former Leeds United defender Lucas Radebe in action for South Africa. (Getty)

Lucas Radebe helped South Africa qualify for their first ever World Cup appearance in 1998.

The date...

June 24, 1998

The event...

Lucas Radebe's South Africa crash out of the 1998 World Cup

What happened?

It was the first time South Africa had qualified for the World Cup and Leeds United legend Lucas Radebe was at the heart of everything they achieved.

Although Bafana Bafana's presence in France was seen as a success before a ball was even kicked, they had tentative hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages.

South Africa were drawn in Group C alongside the hosts with Denmark and Saudi Arabia completing the group.

Captain Radebe saw his side defeated 3-0 by France in the opening game of the tournament before a 1-1 draw with Denmark left them needing a win over Saudi Arabia to progress.

Two penalties, though, ended hopes of qualification as South Africa trailed 2-1 entering injury time.

A 93rd minute penalty - which was converted by Shaun Barlett - ensured the competition ended on a high note for Radebe and his men despite exiting the tournament at the first round stage.