Mokoena Rescues South Africa with Late Spot-Kick
Czechia and South Africa shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw in their World Cup 2026 hub Group A encounter on 18 June 2026, with Mokoena’s 83rd-minute penalty cancelling out a first-minute Sadílek strike.
Czechia made the perfect start when Sadílek found the net in the 6th minute to give his side an early advantage. It looked like the Czechs were on course for a valuable three points as they protected that lead deep into the second half.
However, South Africa were handed a lifeline from the penalty spot and Mokoena made no mistake, converting in the 83rd minute to level matters and deny Czechia what would have been a significant victory.
Group A Implications
The draw means both sides pick up a single point from the contest. According to the live World Cup 2026 standings, Mexico and South Korea sit at the top of Group A on three points each from one game played, while Czechia and South Africa are level on one point apiece after two games played.
Czechia will feel they let the chance to move up the standings slip through their fingers, having led for the majority of the match. South Africa, on the other hand, will take heart from their late fightback, with Mokoena’s composed penalty keeping their qualification hopes very much alive.
Both sides will need to take maximum points from their remaining group fixtures if they are to progress, with Mexico and South Korea already setting the early pace at the summit of Group A.