‘Bafana Can Trouble Czechia’ - Vukusic Warning

Marumo Gallants-linked coach Jozef Vukusic believes Czechia may struggle to overcome Bafana Bafana if Hugo Broos' side produces a performance closer to their true potential when the two nations meet at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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South Africa head into the crucial Group A encounter looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2-0 defeat to hosts Mexico in their tournament opener.

According to Vukusic, the result came as a surprise given the optimism surrounding Bafana Bafana before the tournament began.

South Africa arrived in North America on the back of a strong qualification campaign, having reached the knockout stages of the last two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, creating a sense of belief that the side could compete in a balanced-looking group.

"I watched the match in Johannesburg. There was a huge euphoria in the country before the match. They rated the group as very good, with three equal, playable opponents," Vukusic said in an interview with CTK, as quoted by Livesport.

"After the match, there was no such enthusiasm, but they are very positive; they still believe that they will turn things around in their favour."

The Slovak tactician acknowledged Czechia's superior international experience, but warned that South Africa remains capable of causing problems if they deliver a performance closer to their best.

"The Czechia team is more experienced and better internationally, but the African mentality is unpredictable. It is an important match for both, perhaps a decisive one in terms of progress.

"The Czechs are also the favourite for me, but a performance like against the Koreans may not be enough if Bafana Bafana shows up at full strength," Vukusic warned.

The coach was particularly critical of South Africa's display against Mexico, insisting that the team failed to showcase the qualities that had earned them a place at the global showpiece.

Reflecting on Bafana's opening match, Vukusic felt the performance was well below the level he expected from Broos' charges.

"From my professional point of view, it was a disaster; everything was wrong. They didn't show their strengths and potential. On the contrary, only their shortcomings.

"I saw them in their last match here before leaving, albeit against a weaker opponent (Nicaragua), but I expected a completely different performance," he added.

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With both South Africa and Czechia entering the clash off the back of defeats in their opening matches, Thursday's encounter could prove pivotal in determining which nation remains in contention for a place in the Round of 32.