
Czechia Eyes Knockout Stage in Must‑Win Clash with South Africa
Both Czechia and South Africa lost their opening World Cup matches, and a decisive encounter at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium will test their contrasting strengths.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Sphephelo Sithole across Soccer.

Both Czechia and South Africa lost their opening World Cup matches, and a decisive encounter at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium will test their contrasting strengths.

The Athletic’s daily World Cup predictions combine analytical depth with a light‑hearted contest that pits experts, subscribers, a six‑year‑old, a dog and an algorithm against each other, while recapping Matchday 1 highlights and previewing the next round of fixtures.

Mexico secured a 2-0 win against South Africa in the tournament's opening game, marking the first win for Mexico in a World Cup opener after seven attempts and introducing a new era of 48 teams.
A dramatic opening encounter saw South Africa reduced to nine men after two dismissals, highlighting the impact of the DOGSO rule.
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in their World Cup opener, with Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez finding the net while both teams were reduced to nine men.