• Home
  • Soccer
  • FIFA World Cup

South Africa 1-1 Czechia Player Ratings - Bafana Players Rated as Mokoena Shines

john-eastwood
Editor
Last updated: 2 hours ago

South Africa drew 1-1 against Czechia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta, with standout performances from Mbekezeli Mbokazi in defense and Teboho Mokoena in midfield, whose penalty secured the equalizer. Several players showed promise, but lapses in defense and a lack of midfield control highlighted areas for improvement. The substitutions brought energy, especially Evidence Makgopa's impact, suggesting changes might be needed for the next match against Korea Republic. Overall, the match showed both strengths and vulnerabilities in South Africa's lineup.

John Eastwood 2 hours ago
Share this article
Or copy link
success image
  • South Africa drew 1-1 with Czechia in the 2026 World Cup.
  • Mbokazi (8) shone defensively; Mokoena (8) scored the penalty equaliser but is banned for the next match.
  • Substitutions made an impact; lineup changes are suggested for the next match.
teboho mokoena
Teboho Mokoena scored a crucial penalty and created five chances vs Czechia (Getty Images).

South Africa drew 1-1 with Czechia on Thursday in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta. Below are the player ratings for the Bafana Bafana starting XI and subs. 

STARTING XI:

Ronwen Williams: 7

The goalkeeper did not have that many difficult saves to make. He pushed a long-range effort over the bar and had no chance with the goal. 

Khuliso Mudau: 6

The right back made some sloppy mistakes in the game. He could also be blamed for the opening goal as the failed to cut out the cross.

Ime Okon: 5

The centre-back was too quick to leave his position for the Czechia goal. His passing lacked any line-breaking ability. 

Mbekezeli Mbokazi: 8

The left-footed centre back saved his country on numerous occasions. He made strong tackles and covering interceptions and physically dominated his ground duels. A move to the Big Five leagues is surely not far away. 

Aubrey Modiba: 6

The left back was not at his best, either defensively or with his passing. There were too many speculative long-range efforts from him. 

Jayden Adams: 5

The midfielder struggled to close down the midfield area. At times, he was bypassed too easily and he did not look at his most effective in a more advanced role. 

Teboho Mokoena: 8

The midfielder scored a goal from the penalty spot and completed 93 of his 97 passes (and eight of his ten long passes). His energy was immense, as was his discipline to play for so long on a yellow card. He will sadly miss the final group match due to suspension. 

Thalente Mbatha: 6

His first half display was very quiet and not assertive enough. He looked better in a midfield two and had a strong second half showing. 

Thapelo Maseko: 6

The winger ran hard and caused problems with his pace. His decision-making was wayward, but he did have the shot which led to the penalty. 

Oswin Appollis: 6

The winger added something to the side. He came narrow and looked to knit play together, whilst also having some efforts from distance. 

Iqraam Rayners: 6

The striker was starved of service. He held the ball up well against some imposing defenders and did a good job for the team before running out of steam. 

SUBSTITUTES:

Rele Mofokeng: 6

The number ten helped to keep the ball in the final third. He linked well with teammates and added a much-needed bit of flair and creativity. He must surely start the next match.  

Evidence Makgopa: 7

The target man got some deserved minutes and really made a difference. He gave a focal point to the side and must be pushing to start against Korea Republic. 

Kamogelo Sebelebele: 5

The speedy winger came on for Maseko but he had little impact on the match.

Top Betting Sites

special-offer-1Betting offers

Upcoming Events

01 October 2027

Load More
Hear more from bets.co.za