South Korea Defeat Czech Republic In 2026 World Cup Opener

South Korea fought back from a goal down to beat Czech Republic 2-1 in their opening match of the World Cup, with substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu striking the winner 10 minutes from time at Estadio Guadalajara.

The Koreans controlled large spells of the game and created the better chances from the outset. Captain Son Heung-min was at the heart of most attacking moves, registering five of his side’s eight first-half attempts. His best opportunity was denied by goalkeeper Matej Kovar, who produced a crucial block to keep the scores level before the break.

Despite struggling to threaten, the Czech Republic took the lead in the 59th minute with their first shot on target. Captain Ladislav Krejci rose highest to head in a long throw from Vladimir Coufal and stun the South Korean supporters.

The advantage lasted only eight minutes. Hwang In-beom, operating in midfield, restored parity after being picked out inside the penalty area by Lee Kang-in. The Feyenoord player sold Kovar with a clever dummy before lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper and into the empty net.

South Korea were then handed a major let-off in the 78th minute when Tomas Soucek headed home from a free-kick delivery. The celebrations were cut short after a VAR review confirmed an offside infringement.

That decision proved decisive. Two minutes later, Hwang turned provider, delivering a cross that Oh Hyeon-gyu converted from close range to complete the comeback and put Hong Myung-bo’s side in front.

The victory was secured by goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, who produced a fine low save to deny Adam Hlozek shortly after the winning goal. He was called into action again in stoppage time, keeping out Michal Sadilek to preserve South Korea’s lead.

The result marks the first time in four World Cup tournaments that South Korea have opened their campaign with a victory.

Naija News reports that Czech Republic will face South Africa on 18 June, while South Korea take on co-hosts Mexico on 19 June after the Mexicans began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Bafana Bafana.