Czechia vs South Africa FIFA World Cup 2026: TV Channel in India, Free Live Stream and Kick-off Time

Score: Czech Republic 1-1 South Africa

It ended in a 1-1 draw between the Czech Republic and South Africa in Atlanta, as both sides shared the points in their opening 2026 World Cup campaign match.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 continues with another exciting Group A encounter as Czechia take on South Africa on Thursday, June 18. The match kicked off at 9:30 PM IST and was played at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, United States, known as Atlanta Stadium during the tournament due to FIFA's sponsorship regulations.

With the expanded 48-team World Cup delivering plenty of surprises and memorable moments, both teams will be eager to secure crucial points in the group stage. Czechia will be looking to make a strong statement in their campaign, while South Africa aim to pull off an upset and boost their chances of progressing to the knockout rounds.

The tournament got off to a disappointing start for both Czechia and South Africa, with each side suffering opening defeats in Mexico. Bafana Bafana were beaten 2-0 by the hosts at the Estadio Azteca, although they "won" the red card count 2-1 in a fiery contest. Meanwhile, Czechia let an early lead slip and went down 2-1 against South Korea in Guadalajara.

With both teams yet to register a point, progression from Group A could now hinge on this crucial encounter.

Both nations will also be desperate to extend their stay at a World Cup stage they have not featured at in years. Czechia last appeared in 2006, while South Africa's previous World Cup outing came in 2010 as hosts.

Football fans in India can watch the match live on the newly launched Unite8 Sports channels, which have been introduced by Zee as part of its sports broadcasting lineup. The game will also be available for live streaming on the Zee5 app and website.

After months of uncertainty regarding broadcasting rights in India, Zee secured a deal with FIFA to air the 2026 FIFA World Cup and several other FIFA events through 2034. As a result, Indian viewers can follow all 104 matches of the tournament through television and digital platforms.

For viewers preferring television coverage, the match will be available on Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD. Online viewers can stream the action live through Zee5 with an active subscription.

Czechia vs South Africa: Match Details

Match: Czechia vs South Africa
Tournament: FIFA World Cup 2026, Group A
Date: June 18, 2026
Time: 9:30 PM IST
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Stadium), Atlanta, USA

Where to Watch in India

Live TV Broadcast: Unite8 Sports channels
Live Streaming: Zee5 app and website

With valuable Group A points at stake, fans can expect an intense contest as Czechia and South Africa battle under the lights in Atlanta.