AFCON 2025
South Africa rescued a vital point at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a late penalty from Teboho Mokoena secured a 1-1 draw against Czechia in their Group A clash in Atlanta.
The Czechs appeared to be heading for victory after taking an early lead through Michal Sadilek in the sixth minute. Sadilek finished off a well-worked move inside the penalty area, firing past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to give Czechia the perfect start.
South Africa struggled to create clear-cut chances for much of the contest despite enjoying spells of possession. Mokoena came closest in the first half with a long-range effort that narrowly missed the target, while Iqraam Rayners was unable to capitalize on a dangerous cross into the box.
Czechia maintained their advantage throughout the second half and looked set to claim all three points as South Africa searched desperately for an equaliser.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 83rd minute when South Africa were awarded a penalty after a handball inside the Czech penalty area. Mokoena stepped up confidently and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, slotting home to make it 1-1.
The late goal sparked celebrations among the South African supporters as Bafana Bafana avoided a second consecutive defeat at the tournament.
The draw leaves both teams still searching for their first win of the World Cup after opening-round defeats. South Africa showed resilience to come from behind, while Czechia will be left frustrated after allowing victory to slip away in the closing stages.
With the result, both nations remain alive in the race for a place in the knockout rounds heading into their final group-stage fixtures.
