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South Korea launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a winning note after overturning a first-half setback to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Czechia in their Group A opener on Thursday.
The Koreans dominated large periods of the contest but struggled to convert their chances, with captain Son Heung-min wasting several promising opportunities. Despite spending much of the match on the back foot, Czechia stunned their opponents in the 59th minute when skipper Ladislav Krejci rose highest to head home from a long throw-in and give his side an unlikely lead.
South Korea responded swiftly. Just eight minutes later, midfielder Hwang In-beom restored parity with a composed finish, delicately lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper after a well-worked attacking move.
The match swung again in the closing stages when Czech midfielder Tomas Soucek thought he had regained the lead for his side. However, his headed effort was ruled out for offside following a review, leaving the score level heading into the final minutes.
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South Korea capitalised on the reprieve almost immediately. Hwang turned provider in the 80th minute, cutting the ball back into the penalty area for substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu, who fired home from close range to complete the comeback and seal all three points.
The result places South Korea firmly in contention in Group A, where co-hosts Mexico currently lead after their 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament’s opening match.
South Korea will next face Mexico in what is expected to be a crucial battle for top spot in the group, while Czechia will seek a response when they take on South Africa in their second fixture.
