South Africa's midfielder, Tebogo Mokoena,  celebrates after scoring the equaliser against Czechia Republic during a FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match. Photo: FIFA/Getty Images

NNA News - South Africa drew 1-1 with Czechia on Thursday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with Teboho Mokoena’s late penalty earning Bafana Bafana a point that kept their 2026 World Cup hopes alive in Group A.

Czechia took the lead in the sixth minute when midfielder Michael Sadilek scored from a set piece. South Africa struggled to create clear chances before halftime and went into the break trailing 1-0. South Africa coach Hugo Broos explained that his team “were not aggressive enough when we lost the ball." “We played a very good game tonight, except for one moment at the beginning of the first half when we were not concentrated,” Broos said.

Czechia coach Miroslav Koubek told the media he believed his team had the upper hand in the first half. “The first half was probably better from our side; however, I disagree with the view that South Africa created better chances. I’m happy with the fact that we created many scoring opportunities,” Koubek explained.

Czechia Republic players celebrate during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match against South Africa.
Photo: FIFA/Getty Images

South Africa came out stronger after the break and were rewarded in the 83rd minute when Mokoena converted from the penalty spot to level the match. “The guys showed a lot of determination and perseverance today,” Broos added. “If we play like that and produce another performance like today, I think we have a chance to go to the second round. I’m proud of my team’s performance, and this is the real Bafana Bafana.”

South African and Czech Republic players react as the referee issues a yellow card during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A clash. Photo: FIFA/Getty Images

South Africa will next face South Korea at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey on June 24, kickoff 02:00 SAST. Czechia meets Mexico at Estadio Azteca later that day, kickoff 03:00 SAST.