Czechia were denied its first World Cup victory when Mokoena’s late penalty brought South Africa back into the game.
The European side now faces an uphill battle against Group A favorite Mexico on the final day to have any chance of advancing to the knockout stages. Czechia have never reached the knockout stages of the World Cup as an independent nation and will need a miracle to qualify against a formidable Mexican team that has what it takes to go deep in this tournament.
Czechia took an early lead in the game through Sidlek, who found the net following some brilliant combination play. Throughout the match, Czechia maintained a compact defensive block, making it difficult for Bafana Bafana to break through and create any meaningful chances. Both Mexico and South Korea will be more than grateful for this result, with both teams eager to capitalize on the draw. A win for either side will see them claim first place in the group and secure their spot in the knockout stage.
Despite having two players suspended from the first matchday, Bafana Bafana still managed to use their pace on the flanks and create width, which allowed them to pose a constant threat to Czechia. They kept pressing forward and eventually forced a mistake from Sulc, which allowed them to get back into the match.
Mokoena remained calm and composed in front of the goal, sending Matej Kovar the wrong way. South Africa will have their work cut out for them in their final game as they face a challenging South Korea team that has its sights set on a second consecutive knockout stage berth.
