FIFA Wrold Cup 2026
Group A: Thursday, June 17
South Africa 1-1 Czechia (Teboho Mokoena, 83′ (pen), Michal Sadilek, 6′)
New York, USA: South Africa fought back from a goal down to secure a valuable 1-1 draw against Czechia in their second Group A match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday evening.
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena emerged as the hero for Bafana Bafana, calmly converting a late penalty to earn his side a crucial point and keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.
South Africa endured a difficult start after Czechia struck early through Michal Sadilek.
The Czech midfielder opened the scoring in the sixth minute, finishing off a well-worked move after being set up by Alexandr Sojka.
The early setback forced Hugo Broos’ men onto the back foot as Czechia controlled large spells of the first half.
South Africa, however, returned from the break with renewed energy and began creating opportunities in search of an equaliser.
Evidence Makgopa came close to leveling matters midway through the second half, but his powerful header was brilliantly saved by Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar.
Bafana Bafana continued to push forward and eventually got their breakthrough eight minutes from time.
The decisive moment arrived in the 82nd minute when Czech substitute Pavel Sulc handled the ball inside the penalty area, prompting the referee to point to the spot.
Mokoena stepped up and showed nerves of steel, sending Kovar the wrong way to score in the 83rd minute and bring South Africa level.
Buoyed by the equaliser, South Africa pressed for a late winner but Czechia managed to hold firm as both sides settled for a share of the spoils.
The result leaves South Africa and Czechia on one point each after two rounds of matches.
Mexico and South Korea currently lead Group A with three points apiece following victories in their opening fixtures.
South Africa will now shift focus to a crucial showdown against South Korea, with victory likely to strengthen their chances of advancing to the Round of 16.
Czechia, meanwhile, face group leaders Mexico in another high-stakes encounter as the race for qualification intensifies.
Group A Standings
- Mexico – 3 points
- South Korea – 3 points
- South Africa – 1 point
- Czechia – 1 point
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