Mokoena Penalty Earns South Africa Draw Against Czechia

Both sides entered the match following opening-game defeats, making this a must-not-lose fixture for both. The result keeps Group A wide open heading into the final round of matches. 

Czech Republic Strike Early

The Czechs controlled the tempo from the first whistle, and their dominance paid off in just the sixth minute. Michal Sadilek collected a sharp cross from a teammate, drove past his marker, and fired firmly into the net to put Czech Republic ahead. South Africa's defence was caught flat-footed — and the goal silenced their fans early. 

For the remainder of the first half, South Africa struggled to impose themselves. Their best chance came at the stroke of half-time, but the Czech goalkeeper punched away a goalbound effort to keep the lead intact.

Bafana Bafana Wake Up

South Africa returned from the break with more urgency, making substitutions and injecting energy into their play. The game began to shift — though Czech Republic continued to threaten on the counter, with a Krejci header narrowly clearing the bar.

Then came the turning point. In the 81st minute, a Czech Republic defender inadvertently handled the ball inside the area. The referee pointed to the spot without hesitation. Mokoena—cool, composed and carrying the weight of a nation—stepped up and buried the penalty in the 83rd minute to make it 1–1.

The goal transformed the match. Both teams chased a winner in the final minutes, but outstanding goalkeeping and resolute defending at both ends ensured the scoreline held. South Africa had a late chance to steal all three points, only to be denied by the Czech goalkeeper.