Czech Republic and South Africa Draw 1-1 in 2026 World Cup Match

The Czech Republic and South Africa played to a 1-1 draw in their second match of the 2026 World Cup, a game notable for featuring the tournament's only female referee, Tori Penso. The Czechs took an early lead in the 5th minute with a goal from Michal Sadilek. South Africa secured a late equalizer in the 83rd minute via a penalty converted by Teboho Mokoena, awarded after a handball by Pavel Suluc.

Penso, an American, was assisted by her compatriots Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt, becoming the second woman to officiate in a World Cup after Stéphanie Frappart in Qatar 2022. In Group A, both Mexico and South Korea won their opening matches, positioning them to advance if Mexico wins their upcoming game.

Despite the draw, both Czech Republic and South Africa remain in contention for a spot in the knockout stage, each holding one point. The Czech Republic started stronger at the Estadio Atlanta, with star player Patrik Schick missing an early clear chance. Sadilek's goal came from a precise shot after a defensive lapse by South Africa.

South Africa, described as "willing but lacking the necessary level" for much of the match, came alive in the final stages. After their penalty equalizer, they created several more chances to potentially snatch a victory against the Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar.