ATLANTA (Kashmir English): South Africa and the Czech Republic played out a 1-1 draw in their Group A encounter at the FIFA World Cup 2026, earning their first point of the tournament after suffering defeats in their opening matches.
The Czech Republic made a strong start and took the lead just six minutes into the game when Michal Sedelek found the back of the net with a well-taken finish. The early goal gave the Europeans control of the match, and they maintained their advantage until halftime.
South Africa pushed hard for an equaliser in the second half and were rewarded in the 83rd minute when the referee awarded a penalty after Czech defender Pavel Schultz handled the ball inside the box.
Midfielder Teboho Mokwena stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick, bringing South Africa level and reigniting their hopes of progressing in the tournament.
Despite late efforts from both sides to find a winner, neither team was able to break the deadlock, and the match ended 1-1.
The result gives South Africa and the Czech Republic their first point of the FIFA World Cup 2026, keeping their chances of advancing from Group A alive as the competition progresses.
