World Cup

Czechia vs South Africa World Cup 2026 prediction

Czechia and South Africa meet in the first of the second round matches with both teams really needing a win if they’re to progress from Group A.

South Africa were convincingly beating 2-0 by co-hosts Mexico in the opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday night. The African side offered very little threat all game.

Czechia were second-best in their game versus South Korea but were only beaten 1-2 with the winning goal 10 minutes from time. They had taken the lead from a long throw through Ladislav Krejčí’s header just before the hour. But overall, the East Asian side were deserved winners, winning the shot count 15-7 and 6-4 on target. They had 62% of possession.

This has the potential to be a dull game based on each nation’s performance in their opening game, but given 3 points will be enough to see several teams progress to the knockout stages as eight of the 12 best third-place teams qualify, it means they should both go for it. At least in the final 20 minutes if it’s level.

The European nation finished second in their qualifying group, and then progressed to the finals only by beating both Republic of Ireland and Denmark on penalties. Arguably the most fluky team to reach North America this summer. Set pieces look like their best threat to goal, althouugh Bayer 04 Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick is capable of scoring in opening player. He should be supported by  Adam Hložek and Pavel Šulc in attack.

South Africa will be without both Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane following their red cards in their opening games. The former was sent off for a last man foul, and the latter for slapping an opponent in the face. They conceded 16 shots on goal versus Mexico and created just three chances of their own.

I think Czechia will have enough quality to win this game.

Best bet: Czechia to win is 3/4 with Bet365