By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
South Korea recovered from a second-half setback to secure a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their opening Group A match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, delivering a strong statement of intent at the Estadio Guadalajara.
The Koreans dominated large stretches of the contest but struggled to convert their superiority into goals. Their frustrations deepened in the 59th minute when Czech captain Ladislav Krejčí headed home from a long throw by Vladimír Coufal to give his side an unexpected lead.
Rather than falter, South Korea responded with renewed urgency. Midfielder Hwang In-beom restored parity in the 67th minute after being released by Lee Kang-in, calmly lifting the ball over goalkeeper Matěj Kovář to bring his side level.
The turnaround was completed in the 80th minute when substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu finished from close range following impressive work by Hwang, who capped an outstanding individual performance with a goal and an assist.
The Czech Republic briefly believed they had found an equaliser through Tomáš Souček, but the effort was ruled out for offside. South Korea then relied on goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, whose crucial late saves denied Adam Hložek and Michal Sadílek and ensured the lead remained intact.
Captain Son Heung-min played a central role in South Korea’s attacking efforts throughout the match, consistently troubling the Czech defence and helping maintain pressure that eventually yielded results.
The victory gives South Korea an early advantage in Group A and marks their first winning start to a World Cup campaign in four tournaments. The result also underlines the team’s resilience and ability to respond under pressure ahead of a crucial clash with co-hosts Mexico.
For the Czech Republic, the defeat highlights missed opportunities despite taking the lead, leaving them in need of a positive result against South Africa in their next group match.
