Mokoena’s Late Penalty Earns South Africa Vital Point Against Czechia
Group A Stays Tight After 1-1 Draw in Atlanta
Teboho Mokoena’s late penalty salvaged a 1-1 draw for South Africa against Czechia in their Group A clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026, keeping both sides level on one point apiece.
Czechia made a blistering start at Atlanta Stadium, with Michal Sadilek scoring the fastest goal of the tournament so far after just five minutes and eight seconds.
Adam Hlozek’s cross from the right was deftly flicked on by Alexandr Sojka, allowing Sadilek to fire past Ronwen Williams and give his side the lead.
South Africa struggled to break down a disciplined Czech defense marshalled by Ladislav Krejci, who was later named Player of the Match.
Coach Hugo Broos introduced 21-year-old Relebohile Mofokeng after the interval, and the youngster injected creativity, though Czechia looked set to hold firm.
The turning point came in the 83rd minute when Pavel Sulc was penalised for handball. Mokoena stepped up and coolly sent goalkeeper Matej Kovar the wrong way to secure South Africa’s first goal of the tournament.
The draw leaves Czechia and South Africa with one point each, trailing Mexico and Korea Republic, who both won their opening matches.
Mexico lead Group A on goal difference after defeating Korea Republic 2-0, while the Koreans edged their opponents 2-1 in their opener.
