World Cup 2026: South Africa vs Czech Republic Tips, Odds & Prediction

* Odds from Betway, correct at time of writing.

South Africa take on Czech Republic at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta for their second game of the World Cup, with kickoff at 18:00 CAT on Thursday, June 18. Both sides lost their opening Group A match, so this is effectively a must win contest, with South Africa missing two players through suspension following red cards in their opener and Czech Republic looking to bounce back from a narrow defeat. For all our World Cup betting tips, head to our dedicated section.

South Africa 

South Africa arrive under real pressure after losing their opener and they have a serious problem to solve in this one. They will be without Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane, both suspended after red cards in the first match, which strips depth from an already stretched squad. Hugo Broos will likely set up to contain Czech Republic and hit on the break through the pace of Mofokeng and Appollis. In my opinion they lack the cutting edge to trouble a more experienced side, and another tight afternoon looks likely.

Predicted Lineup: Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mbatha, Mokoena; Appollis, Mofokeng, Moremi; Foster.

Czech Republic

Czech Republic were beaten in their opener but I thought they played well for long spells before fading late. Captain Ladislav Krejci remains the heartbeat of this team while Patrik Schick gives them a genuine focal point up front, and his movement should pull the South Africa defence around. The squad came through the first match without fresh injury or suspension concerns, so Miroslav Koubek can name a full-strength side. From my point of view they have the quality and the motivation to take control here and grab the win they need.

Predicted Lineup: Kovar; Chaloupek, Hranac, Krejci; Coufal, Soucek, Sadilek, Jurasek; Sulc, Provod; Schick.

Czech Republic have the greater quality and the more settled squad, and with South Africa missing two starters through suspensioin I expect them to take control. I am backing a comfortable Czech win in a low scoring game. My forecast: South Africa 0 Czech Republic 2.

Under 2.5 Goals (1.77)

South Africa failed to score in their opener and now lose two of their better players to suspension, so goals could be hard to come by for them. Czech Republic will be patient and controlled, and I can see this being settled by a single goal or two at most. For me Under 2.5 Goals at 1.77 is the standout value.