World Cup 2026: Mokoena proud despite suspension after South Africa rescue draw against Czech Republic

Teboho Mokoena says he remains proud of his team’s performance after scoring a late penalty to earn South Africa national football team a 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic national football team in their 2026 FIFA World Cup clash on Thursday at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A encounter saw the Europeans take an early lead before South Africa responded strongly in the second half, eventually salvaging a point through Mokoena’s composed spot-kick in the closing stages.

The midfielder, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, admitted the result could have been even better, insisting the team believed they could push on for a winner after equalising.

“I thought we could get another one because I think that’s what we needed. We needed to score a goal so that we could open the game for more goals, but I was relieved with that goal,” he told SABC Sport.

However, the 29-year-old confirmed he will miss South Africa’s final group match due to suspension, a blow he described with disappointment as he hoped to carry momentum into the decisive fixture.

Despite that setback, Mokoena praised the collective effort of the squad and acknowledged the impact of supporters throughout the match.

“I’m proud of the team, the way we played and the way we showed up,” he said. “I can also give credit to the supporters who kept on cheering for us and giving us strength.”

Reflecting on his first World Cup appearance, Mokoena described the experience as a lifelong dream fulfilled, adding that messages from fans back home in Bethlehem made the moment even more meaningful.

South Africa now turn their attention to a crucial final Group A fixture against South Korea, where they will be aiming for a place in the knockout stages without their influential midfielder.