South Africa fight back to earn 1-1 draw with Czech Republic at World Cup

South Africa were a goal down within six minutes. They walked off the pitch at halftime still trailing. But they came back.

Teboho Mokoena's penalty in the 83rd minute earned Bafana Bafana a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in their second Group A match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday. The result keeps South Africa's tournament hopes alive.

The Czech Republic started fast. Michal Sadílek finished from Filip Sojka's assist in the sixth minute, and the Europeans looked dangerous early on. Patrik Schick and Ladislav Krejčí both threatened to extend the lead.

But South Africa settled. Hugo Broos' men took control of the game, enjoying 62 per cent possession. They created chances through Oswin Appollis, Aubrey Modiba, Iqraam Rayners, and Thapelo Maseko, but went into the break still 1-0 down.

Broos brought on Relebohile Mofokeng at the start of the second half. The substitution injected fresh energy into the South African attack. Bafana kept pushing and got their reward in the 83rd minute when Mokoena calmly converted a penalty.

The closing stages were tense. Both teams had chances to win it. South Africa came closest, forcing late saves through Evidence Makgopa, Modiba, and Mbokazi, but the Czech defence held firm. South Africa finished with more possession and more shots on target.

The result adds to Africa's strong showing at this World Cup. Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana have won their matches. Cape Verde, Morocco, Egypt, DR Congo, and now South Africa have all earned notable draws against Spain, Brazil, Belgium, Portugal, and the Czech Republic respectively.

Africa continuing to punch above its weight

African teams have been competitive across the board. Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana secured victories. Cape Verde held Spain, Morocco drew with Brazil, Egypt matched Belgium, DR Congo tied Portugal, and now South Africa has a point against the Czech Republic. It's the best collective performance by African nations at a World Cup in recent memory.

For South Africa, the draw keeps them in contention in Group A. Their next match will be crucial. A win could push them towards the knockout stages for the first time since 2002.