2026 FIFA World Cup: Teboho Mokoena rescues South Africa against Czechia
Teboho Mokoena’s late penalty kept South Africa’s FIFA World Cup hopes alive as Bafana Bafana battled back to earn a 1-1 draw against Czechia in Group A at Atlanta Stadium on Thursday.
Both teams entered the contest desperate for a positive result after suffering defeats in their opening matches. South Africa fell 2-0 to Mexico, while Czechia were edged 2-1 by South Korea.
It was the Europeans who made the brighter start, stunning South Africa with the fastest goal of the tournament so far. Michal Sadílek struck after just six minutes, punishing a moment of defensive hesitation to hand Czechia an early lead.
Despite taking control of the scoreboard, Czechia failed to build on their advantage. They came close to doubling their lead shortly after the break when Vladimír Darida's effort was blocked, while Patrik Schick was denied by South African captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, whose save kept his side within touching distance.
South Africa gradually grew into the game and dominated possession for long spells, searching for a route back into the contest. Their persistence finally paid off in the 82nd minute when substitute Pavel Šulc handled the ball inside the penalty area.
Mokoena showed nerves of steel from the spot, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to level the scores and spark celebrations among the South African supporters.
Bafana Bafana pushed for a dramatic winner in the closing minutes, but Czechia held firm as the points were shared in a result that leaves both nations with work to do heading into their final group fixtures.
The draw lifts Czechia to third place in Group A on goal difference, with South Africa just behind them on the same number of points. Both sides now face must-win encounters if they are to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.
Czechia will take on co-hosts Mexico on June 25, while South Africa face South Korea in a decisive final group-stage showdown.
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