Teboho Mokoena’s late spot-kick kept South Africa’s World Cup hopes alive.
South Africa fought back to earn a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic after Teboho Mokoena converted an 83rd-minute penalty in their Group A clash.
The Czech Republic took an early lead just five minutes into the match when Michal Sadilek finished a clever move with a powerful strike. It was the fastest goal scored at the tournament so far.
South Africa struggled to create clear chances and did not register a shot on target until the 74th minute. However, the breakthrough came late when Thapelo Maseko’s effort struck Pavel Sulc’s arm inside the penalty area. After the penalty was awarded, Mokoena calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner to level the score.
The result leaves both teams with work to do in the race for a place in the knockout stage. Mexico and South Korea currently sit above them in the Group A standings.
With the eight best third-placed teams advancing to the last 32, both South Africa and the Czech Republic remain firmly in contention ahead of their final group matches.
South Africa will face South Korea, while the Czech Republic take on co-hosts Mexico as the battle for qualification continues.
Captain Teboho Mokoena is expected to miss the upcoming match due to a suspension after picking up another yellow card.