Bafana were so much better against Czechia than they were against Mexico. The fight was there, the spirit was there and, for the first time in this tournament, a goal was there. And yet it was another early defensive mistake that cost us, and it is difficult not to feel frustrated that this side seemingly needs to go a goal down before they find their best football.
Hugo Broos’ men did give us what we asked for though. Questions may be asked over the handball call, but Mokoena stepped up and buried it.
The cagey opening had given us the uneasy feeling that this was heading the same way as Mexico. Mokoena’s early yellow looked to have shackled him. A defensive error gifted Czechia their lead and the physical approach of the Europeans threatened to overpower Bafana once again. But the tempo shifted, pressure was applied and ultimately a point was earned that keeps South Africa’s World Cup alive.
It was not pretty, but they did what we asked – they gave us something to celebrate. It makes you wonder what could have happened if we had approached last week’s game with the same mentality. With one game remaining, a win against South Korea is non-negotiable if Bafana wish to advance.
We could have won this match. That thought will linger. But we cannot be greedy. At least Bafana are leaving the 2026 World Cup with points on the board, and tonight, that is enough.
Photo: REUTERS/Claudia Greco
