South Africa kept their hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time alive after Teboho Mokoena converted a late penalty to secure a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic on Thursday.
The Czech Republic made a bright start and went ahead through Michal Sadilek, whose strike after five minutes and eight seconds was the fastest goal scored at the tournament so far.
Having lost their opening matches, both sides entered the contest knowing defeat would leave them facing an uphill battle to progress from Group A. The Czechs looked set to claim a crucial victory after taking an early lead, while striker Patrik Schick squandered another promising chance in the opening minute.
South Africa gradually grew into the game and were rewarded late on when Mokoena calmly converted from the penalty spot to earn a share of the points.
The draw leaves both teams on one point, two behind group leaders Mexico and South Korea, who were due to meet later on Thursday. South Africa are set to face South Korea in their final group match, while the Czech Republic travel to the Estadio Azteca to take on Mexico.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos praised his side’s display despite the result.
“I’m very proud of my team. This is Bafana Bafana – we love good football, we are aggressive, we create chances. Yes, we made mistakes, but I’m very proud of the performance today,” Broos said.
The Belgian also highlighted the challenge posed by the physically imposing Czech side but backed his players to remain in contention for qualification.
“It’s a little bit of a pity that it’s only 1-1, but we just have to win the game against Korea Republic, which will be very difficult too. If we play with the same mentality, it will be possible,” he added.
(with ANI input)
