Former Nigerian internationals Ifeanyi Udeze and Brown Ideye have commended South Africa’s impressive 1-1 draw against Czechia in the second match of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Teboho Mokoena’s 83rd-minute penalty kick goal salvaged a point for South Africa during a 1-1 draw with Czechia on Thursday.
It didn’t start well for South Africa as Michal Sadílek scored the fastest goal of the 2026 World Cup so far with a sixth-minute strike to put Czechia ahead early.
But Mokoena scored from the spot with seven minutes remaining on Thursday after Czechia substitute Pavel Sulc was penalised for a handball as he attempted to block a shot from Thapelo Maseko.
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Reacting after the game, Udeze, who was a guest on Sporty TV World Cup coverage, stated that he was delighted with the way the South Africans fought back to earn a draw.
“I think South Africa did very well to have drawn this game against Czechia.
“They were behind for most of the game and got a penalty to find their way back. It’s a good result for them.”
Ideye Praises South Africa’s Comeback
On the other hand, Ideye, who praised the Bafana Bafana never-say-die spirit, however, faulted the team’s inability to get the maximum three points after leveling the score via a penalty.
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“After the penalty, I expected South Africa to go all out for the three points because this game is an important game for them to win. Now they are playing against South Korea in their final game.
“Mind you, South Korea are a very disciplined team, and they’re tough to beat. So I was expecting South Africa to win this one. Anyway, big kudos to the Bafana for playing out a 1-1 draw against Czechia.”
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