Czech Republic, South Africa share spoils in Group A thriller

Czech Republic and South Africa played to a 1-1 draw in Houston, leaving both sides on three points and desperate for victory in their final group matches. The match opened with Czech pressure, but South Africa’s goalkeeper made a series of saves to keep the score level. In the 34th minute, defender Bongani Mokoena stepped up to convert a penalty after a foul in the box, giving South Africa the lead.

Czech Republic responded in the 61st minute when midfielder Jakub Brabec headed home from a corner, leveling the score at 1-1. The second half saw chances at both ends, with South Africa’s Themba Zwane forcing a save from Czech goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek in the 78th minute. Both teams now head into their final group games knowing a win is mandatory to advance.