Czech Republic Return to the World Cup After Penalty-Heavy Prague Night — and South Africa Learn Their Final Group Test

The Czech Republic are heading to the 2026 World Cup for the first time since 2006 after edging Denmark 3-1 on penalties in a 2-2 playoff classic. Their qualification completes South Africa’s group picture, adding a tactically demanding European opponent to Bafana Bafana’s route through the finals.