Teboho Mokoena’s late penalty earned South Africa a vital 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic, keeping both teams in contention for a place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage.
South Africa kept their FIFA World Cup knockout-stage ambitions alive after a dramatic 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Atlanta on Thursday. A late penalty from Teboho Mokoena rescued a crucial point for Bafana Bafana and ensured their qualification hopes remain intact heading into the final round of Group A matches.
The Czech Republic made a bright start and looked determined to bounce back from their opening defeat. After Patrik Schick missed an early opportunity, Michal Sadilek gave the Europeans the lead in the sixth minute, calmly finishing after excellent build-up play involving Adam Hlozek and Alexandr Sojka.
South Africa struggled to create clear chances for much of the match, highlighting the attacking issues that have troubled the team throughout the tournament. However, Hugo Broos’ side remained resilient and continued searching for an equalizer.
The turning point arrived seven minutes from time when Thapelo Maseko’s effort struck Pavel Sulc’s arm inside the penalty area. Referee Tori Penso immediately pointed to the spot, and Mokoena confidently converted the penalty to score South Africa’s first World Cup goal in 16 years.
South Africa nearly completed a remarkable comeback moments later, but Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar denied Relebohile Mofokeng with a crucial save.
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