South Korea made an impressive start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign by fighting back from a goal down to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their Group A opener at Guadalajara on Thursday.
The match attracted strong support for the Korean side, with thousands of local fans cheering them on throughout the contest. The victory puts South Korea level on points with co-hosts Mexico at the top of Group A after Mexico defeated South Africa in the tournament’s opening match.
The game showcased two contrasting styles. South Korea relied on their technical ability, quick passing, and creativity, while the Czech Republic focused on physical strength, aerial dominance, and direct attacking football. Despite several opportunities in the first half, neither side managed to break the deadlock before halftime.
The Czech Republic eventually took the lead in the 59th minute when Ladislav Krejci rose above the Korean defense to power home a header from a long throw delivered by Vladimir Coufal. The goal rewarded the European side’s dominance in aerial situations and placed South Korea under pressure.
However, the Asian side responded brilliantly. Just eight minutes later, Lee Kang-in produced a perfectly weighted through ball that found Hwang In-beom, who calmly cut inside before curling a precise right-footed effort into the far corner to level the score.
South Korea continued to push forward in search of a winner. Their breakthrough arrived after Oh Hyeon-gyu, who had replaced captain Son Heung-min, finished off an excellent attacking move. Hwang In-beom turned provider this time, setting up Oh for the decisive goal that completed the comeback.
The Czech Republic thought they had equalised when Thomas Soucek headed the ball into the net from a free kick, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
The victory gives South Korea valuable momentum ahead of their upcoming clash with Mexico on June 18, while the Czech Republic will look to recover when they face South Africa on the same day.
