Czechia vs. South Africa odds, predictions: 2026 World Cup picks from proven soccer expert

World Cup 2026 sides in must-win mode face off in the group stage on Thursday, when Czechia faces South Africa. Both teams lost their opening match; Czechia was outplayed in a 2-1 loss to South Korea, South Africa was handled 2-0 by Mexico. A loss here all but eliminates any chances to move on to the Round of 16. 

Kickoff is noon p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons. The latest Czechia vs. South Africa odds from FanDuel Sportsbook list the Czech Republic side as -132 favorites (risk $132 to win $100) on the 90-minute money line, with South Africa at +363, and a draw at +268. The over/under for total goals is 2.5.

Before locking in any Czechia vs. South Africa picks or World Cup 2026 predictions, you need to see what proven soccer expert Martin Green has to say.

After working in the sports betting industry for several years, Green became a professional sports writer and handicapper and has covered the game worldwide. Last year, Green was profitable in multiple areas on his soccer picks, including the Champions League (+211.25) and Bundesliga (+100). He's also been red-hot in 2026, posting an 18-8 record over his last 26 UCL picks, returning nearly $1,000 in profit. Anyone following could have seen HUGE returns!

Now Green has turned his attention to Czechia vs. South Africa in the 2026 World Cup, and revealed his best bets. 

One of Green's Czechia vs. South Africa predictions: He is leaning toward the Under of 2.5 goals. 

"Czechia aren't as strong as Mexico, so South Africa should have more chances in this game, but their lack of urgency in possession is concerning," Green wrote at SportsLine. 

Green has locked in another two best bets, including one soccer pick that returns plus-money!

What are the best bets for Czechia vs. South Africa? ... Join SportsLine now to see Martin Green's best bets for South Africa vs. Czechia, all from the soccer expert who is on an 18-8 run on UCL picks!