Mokoena penalty keeps South Africa alive with 1-1 draw against Czechia

A late, controversial penalty converted by Teboho Mokoena salvaged a crucial point for South Africa against Czechia, keeping their 2026 World Cup hopes alive. The 1-1 draw meant both nations remain firmly in the hunt for knockout progression after they shared the spoils in Atlanta.

Michal Sadilek struck after just six minutes, registering the earliest goal of the competition so far to give the Czechs the lead. Rather than building on that early breakthrough, Czechia quickly retreated into a heavily defensive shell, leaving South Africa struggling to find any fluid attacking rhythm as the midfield became congested.

The match seemed to be heading for a predictable finish until the 83rd minute, when Thapelo Maseko’s powerful shot struck the elbow of Pavel Sulc inside the penalty area. Despite intense protests, the video assistant referee did not overturn the on-field decision and Mokoena stepped up to fire home the equaliser.

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