World Cup 2026: South Africa snatch a draw against Czech Republic

South Africa didn’t give up. In trouble after their opening defeat against Mexico, the South African team earned a valuable draw against the Czech Republic (1-1) on matchday two of Group A at the 2026 World Cup. The Bafana Bafana were quickly put under pressure by a Czech side determined to bounce back after their loss to South Korea. As early as the 6th minute, a perfectly executed team move allowed Michal Sadilek to open the scoring with a low shot after some excellent work from Adam Hlozek down the right side.

Dominant in the first half, the Czechs almost extended their lead soon after. But the South Africans gradually found their rhythm. Oswin Appollis, Aubrey Modiba, and Iqraam Rayners tried to trouble the opposing defense but couldn’t break the deadlock. Before the break, Hugo Broos’s men showed more ambition. Khuliso Mudau in particular had a good opportunity after a move started by Thapelo Maseko, but goalkeeper Matej Kovar closed down his angle perfectly.

Mokoena saves the Bafana Bafana

After the restart, the Czech Republic continued to pose a threat. Ronwen Williams had to be alert to a long shot from Lukas Cerv, before Patrick Schick and Vladislav Krejci narrowly missed the target from several set pieces. But South Africa refused to give in. Becoming more enterprising as time passed, the Bafana Bafana kept trying long-range shots and attacking moves. Their persistence was finally rewarded in the 83rd minute.

After a shot from Thapelo Maseko, Pavel Sulc handled the ball in his own area. The referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Teboho Mokoena then stepped up. The South African midfielder coolly converted his effort to draw the two teams level and completely reignite the match. The closing minutes were tightly contested. The Czechs pressed for a winner while the South Africans kept believing. But neither Lukas Provod’s attempts nor those from Aubrey Modiba in added time found the back of the net.

With this point, South Africa stays in contention in this particularly tight Group A. The Bafana Bafana are temporarily in third place with one point, level with the Czech Republic, ahead of the other match between Mexico and South Korea. Now, a win against South Korea is essential if they hope to qualify.