Czech Republic and South Africa played out a thrilling 1-1 draw in their second game of group A as both sides kept their hopes of reaching the knockout alive.
Michal Sadilek had given Czech an early lead, but Teboho Mokoena’s second half penalty restored parity for South Africa.
The draw leaves both sides on one point each after they both lost their opening game and into the final and decisive group game needing victory.
Sadilek fires Czech ahead at the Mercedes Benz Stadium
Czech Republic had suffered a 2-1 defeat to South Korea in their opening game, while South Africa were beaten in the tournament opening game by Mexico 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca.
It was the European side who were the better side early on, but Patrik Schick fluffed a header from a promising position and failed to threaten Ronwen Williams in the South Africa goal.
However, Czech Republic opened scoring with the fastest goal of the tournament so far at 5:07, as Michal Sadilek swept home after a good move.
South Africa then began dominating the clash but could not trouble the Czech Republic goalkeeper, with the first half ending 1-0 to the European side.
Mokoena’s penalty seals point for South Africa
Czech started brighter in the second half and Ime Okon denied them with a good block, before Schick was denied by Williams.
South Africa then grew into the game and they were then awarded a penalty late on as Thapelo Maseko’s shot hit the arm of Pavel Sulv inside the area.
Teboho Mokoena stepped up to level the scoreline with a wonderfully taken penalty kick. Kamogelo Sebelebele then had an attempt which was saved by Kovar as both sides chased a late winner.
South Africa had a great chance to seal the win, but Makgopa could only fire straight at Kovar as the game ended in a 1-1 draw.
Key stats
Ball Possession: Czech 38% – 62% South Africa
Total Shots: Czech 14 – 17 South Africa
Shots on target: Czech 3 – 4 South Africa
Pass Accuracy: Czech 80% – 90% South Africa
Corners: Czech 5 – 5 South Africa
What Next?
South Africa face South Korea in their last group game and must win to secure their place in the next round of the tournament. Meanwhile, Czech will face co-host Mexico simultaneously next Thursday.
