World Cup 2026: South Africa draw with Czech Republic 1:1 from penalty

In a World Cup Group B match, South Africa drew 1:1 with Czech Republic from a penalty conversion. Czech Republic took the lead as early as the sixth minute with a goal by Michael Sadílek, but Teboho Mokoena converted a penalty to restore parity. The situation in Group B remains wide open after two rounds, as all four matches in the opening round ended in draws.

In the second round of Group B of the World Cup, Czech Republic and South Africa drew 1:1, with the away team's goal coming from a penalty.

Sadílek scores quick opener

Czech Republic took the lead as early as the sixth minute when, following a long throw-in, a quick passing sequence developed and Michael Sadílek got a free shot from 12 metres out. South Africa's defence was broken down far too easily in the opening stages.

The first half proceeded relatively calmly, with both teams combining for five shots on goal, but only Sadílek's effort found the back of the net. South Africa had one dangerous moment towards the end of the first half when the Czech goalkeeper failed to catch a cross, but the attackers could not get a proper shot away.

Penalty brings the draw

In the second half, around the 68th minute, a shot from a South African attacker struck Pavel Šulc's hand in the penalty area; the ball was heading towards goal and the referee awarded a penalty. Teboho Mokoena sent the ball into the bottom corner and the goalkeeper had no chance to react. The score was levelled at 1:1.

Statistics

South Africa controlled possession for 63% of the match. Both teams had five shots on target, with Czech Republic earning two corner kicks and South Africa three. Expected goals (xG) stood at 0.41 for Czech Republic and 0.21 for South Africa.

The situation in Group B remains extremely open after the second round of matches, as all matches played so far have ended 1:1.