South Africa kept their FIFA World Cup campaign alive with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic on Thursday after Teboho Mokoena converted a late penalty to cancel out Michal Sadilek’s early opener.
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Needing a response after their opening defeat to Mexico, Bafana Bafana dominated possession for long spells but fell behind in the sixth minute when Sadilek finished from close range after Adam Hlozek’s cross caused problems in the South African box.
Despite controlling much of the first half, Hugo Broos’ side struggled to turn possession into clear chances. Iqraam Rayners headed wide from a promising opportunity, and Thapelo Maseko saw an effort blocked deep into first-half stoppage time as the Czechs took a 1-0 lead into the break.
Broos introduced Relebohile Mofokeng at halftime as South Africa increased the pressure after the interval. Maseko, Oswin Appollis and Aubrey Modiba all tested the Czech defence, while Ronwen Williams remained alert at the other end to deny Patrik Schick and Lukas Cerv.
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The breakthrough finally arrived in the 82nd minute when Pavel Sulc was penalised for handling Maseko’s shot inside the area. Mokoena calmly stepped up and sent goalkeeper Matej Kovar the wrong way to level the scores.
South Africa pushed for a winner in the closing stages, with Maseko and Kamogelo Sebelebele both going close, but the Czechs held firm through seven minutes of added time.
The draw leaves both teams searching for a first victory of the tournament, although South Africa can take encouragement from a spirited display that earned them a valuable point in Group A.
Originally published by Soccermag.
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