Teboho Mokoena converted a late penalty as South Africa salvaged a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic on Thursday, keeping alive its hopes of reaching the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup.
Mokoena struck from the spot in the 83rd minute after Czech midfielder Pavel Sulc handled a long-range effort from Thapelo Maseko inside the penalty area at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, reports AP.
The South African midfielder, who was seen in tears during the national anthem before kickoff, calmly sent his penalty beyond Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar to level the score.
The Czech Republic had taken an early lead in the sixth minute when Michal Sadilek finished off a move created by Alexandr Sojka, sliding the ball past South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Both sides entered the match under pressure after losing their opening Group A fixtures. South Africa suffered a 2-0 defeat to co-host Mexico, while the Czech Republic went down 2-1 to South Korea.
The draw leaves both teams with a chance of progressing to the round of 32.
South Africa will face South Korea in its final group match on Wednesday, while the Czech Republic will take on Mexico at the same time.
