Atlanta, Jun 19 (V7N) – South Africa staged a spirited second-half comeback to salvage a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in their Group A encounter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Thursday.
The Czech Republic made a flying start and registered the fastest goal of the tournament so far when Michal Sadilek found the net in the sixth minute.
The move began with Adam Hlozek controlling a long throw-in from the right flank before delivering a pass into the penalty area. After a neat one-two exchange with Tomas Sowicz, Sadilek fired a low shot past the goalkeeper to give the Czechs an early advantage.
The Czech Republic maintained their lead throughout the first half and went into the break ahead 1-0.
South Africa returned with renewed determination after halftime and created a series of scoring opportunities. Their persistence finally paid off in the 83rd minute when Teboho Mokoena converted a penalty to level the score and secure a valuable point for his side.
The result leaves Group A finely balanced. The winner of the upcoming match between Mexico and South Korea will become the first team from the group to book a place in the World Cup knockout stage.
Meanwhile, both the Czech Republic and South Africa remain in contention for qualification, although their hopes of progressing to the next round will depend on results elsewhere as well as their performances in the final group matches.
END/SMA/AJ
