South Africa midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who scored the equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Czechia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, revealed that an emotional moment during the national anthem was inspired by thoughts of his late grandfather, www.aclsports.com reports.
The team fell behind early after Czechia’s Michal Sadílek scored after just 5 minutes, the fastest goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but responded after the break as Mokoena’s late penalty secured a 1-1 draw and their first World Cup goal in 16 years.
After the match, Mokoena said thoughts of his grandfather came during the emotional moment of the national anthem.
“When I was overwhelmed, I was thinking about my late grandfather. I just felt his presence at that moment. He believed in me even when nobody else believed in me. It’s a dream come true. I’m living my dream as a kid from Bethlehem. I never thought I’d be here scoring at a World Cup. Everyone back home is happy,” he said.
Mokoena, who will miss South Africa’s next match against South Korea due to suspension, backed the squad’s depth ahead of the final group game.
“I didn’t let the team down. What I did, I was doing for the team. Whoever plays next will represent South Africa. We are confident as a team. Jayden Adams is a very talented young man. There’s nothing to worry about,” he said.
The result leaves South Africa still in contention heading into their final Group A fixture, with belief growing in the camp that qualification remains within reach.
“That’s what we wanted, to get something from this game. We still have a chance, and we are confident going into the last game, and we believe we can beat South Korea,” Mokoena added.
Thapelo Maseko, who made his first World Cup start, also reflected on the team’s improved second-half display, crediting tactical adjustments while admitting the side lacked cutting edge in front of goal.
“The coach told us some things to improve in the second half, and it was a lot better,” he said. “We got chances and couldn’t capitalise. We just need a bit of luck as well.”
South Africa face South Korea in their final group game as they aim to keep their World Cup dream alive.
