Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Group A - Czech Republic v South Africa - Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. - June 18, 2026 Czech Republic's Michal Sadilek celebrates scoring their first goal IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Nathan Ray Seebeck | Photo Credit: Reuters

Michal Sadilek scored the opening goal of the FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Czechia and South Africa in Atlanta on Thursday.

The 27-year-old plays for Slavia Prague and has made 37 appearances for the European nation. The goal on Thursday was just his second of his international career.

Sadilek moved up through the ranks in Dutch football, playing for the youth teams of PSV Eindhoven. He then moved to Twente in 2022 before making the switch to his home country in 2025.

Last season, he scored two goals and assisted five in 39 appearances. For Twente, the side he has played the most with, he registered seven goals and 14 assists in 122 appearances.

Published on Jun 18, 2026