Sadílek puts Czechia ahead, but Mokoena's penalty earns South Africa a 1-1 draw
Czechia led early through Sadílek, but Mokoena's 83rd-minute penalty rescued South Africa in Atlanta.
The Czech Republic and South Africa drew 1-1 in an intense 2026 World Cup Group A match settled from the penalty spot in the closing stages. Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium in the USA, an architectural gem of 68,239 seats recognisable for its spectacular petal-shaped retractable roof, hosted this evenly matched tussle.
The Czechs struck early. In the 6th minute, Michal Sadílek pounced on an Antonín Sojka assist to put his side ahead and make life difficult for the Africans. South Africa, true to their combative style, kept pushing until, in the 83rd minute, Teboho Mokoena converted a penalty to seal the final 1-1 and earn a hugely valuable point.
The battle produced several yellows: South Africa's Teboho Mokoena (33') and Thalente Mbatha (40') were booked, while Czech captain Ladislav Krejčí (75') saw a card in a tense finale.
Miroslav Koubek set up Czechia in a 3-5-2 with Matěj Kovář in goal and the attacking pairing of Patrik Schick and Adam Hložek. Hugo Broos answered with a 4-3-3 for South Africa, with Ronwen Williams between the posts and a hard-working midfield led by Mokoena, decisive for his goal from the spot.
The draw leaves Group A tightly bunched at this 48-team World Cup hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada. Both nations claim their first point and keep their hopes of fighting for the qualifying places fully alive in the rounds ahead.