As full-time loomed in Thursday's Group A match at Atlanta Stadium, it looked as though Chicago Fire FC defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi's hopes of advancing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup were fading.
Czechia led South Africa, 1-0, thanks to a slick finish from Michal SadĂlek in the sixth minute. The Round of 32 dream was losing steam.
But then Mbokazi and South Africa got a lifeline in the final stages when Thapelo Maseko's shot was handled in the penalty area by a Czechia defender.
Up stepped Teboho Mokoena, who coolly slotted his penalty kick past goalkeeper Matěj Kovář to salvage a 1-1 draw.
In a flash, Bafana Bafana had their first World Cup goal since hosting the 2010 World Cup and remain in contention at this summer's tournament.
Mbokazi and South Africa now have one point through two matchdays, having lost 2-0 to co-hosts Mexico in the first game of the tournament.
That puts huge pressure on their June 24 showdown with South Korea and LAFC superstar Son Heung-Min, who face Mexico late Thursday in a top-of-the-group clash.
To advance, Bafana and Bafana would likely need a win in their final Group A test. They'd finish on four points, putting second place (guaranteed spot) or third place (potential spot) both in the cards.Â
Remember: The 2026 World Cup features an expanded 48-team field and, with it, the knockout rounds begin with the Round of 32. Each group's top two finishers automatically advance, and the top eight third-place finishers also progress.
Still in contention, how will South Africa and Mbokazi respond vs. South Korea? It will surely be one of their country's biggest-ever matches.
So far this World Cup, the 2026 MLS All-Star defender has played the full 90 minutes in both of Bafana Bafana's games. Philadelphia Union center back Olwethu Makhanya has been an unused substitute vs. both Mexico and Czechia.
