South Africa kept their hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time alive after battling to a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in their Group A clash in Atlanta on Thursday.
A late penalty from Teboho Mokoena rescued a point for Bafana Bafana after Michal Sadilek had given the Czech Republic an early lead.
The result leaves both teams on one point from two matches, with their hopes of progressing to the last 32 still intact. However, both nations will likely need victory in their final group matches to stand a realistic chance of advancing.
The Czech Republic made a bright start and nearly scored inside the opening minute when Patrik Schick headed wide from a promising position.
Their pressure paid off in the sixth minute. Adam Hlozek delivered a cross into the box, which Alexandr Sojka cleverly guided into the path of Sadilek. The midfielder calmly slotted past South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to put the Europeans ahead.
South Africa, appearing at the World Cup for the first time since 2002, struggled to create clear opportunities in the opening stages. Hugo Broos’ side, who finished third at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, found it difficult to break down a disciplined Czech defence.
The Czech Republic had chances to extend their advantage after the break but failed to make them count. Vladimir Darida hesitated when presented with a clear opening, while Lukas Cerv’s long-range strike was tipped over the bar by Williams.
With time running out, South Africa finally found a way back into the match. Seven minutes from the end, Thapelo Maseko’s effort struck the arm of Pavel Sulc inside the penalty area.
Referee Tori Penso immediately pointed to the spot, and Mokoena stepped up to confidently fire home South Africa’s first World Cup goal in 16 years.
Bafana Bafana nearly completed the comeback moments later, but Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar produced a fine save to deny Relebohile Mofokeng.
In the end, both sides settled for a draw that keeps their qualification hopes alive heading into the final round of Group A fixtures.
South Africa will face South Korea in their final group match, while the Czech Republic must overcome co-hosts Mexico.
For now, South Africa’s dream remains alive, with everything still to play for.
