South Korea made a winning start to its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign after fighting back from a goal down to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 in an entertaining Group A clash. Midfielder Hwang In-beom emerged as the star of the match, scoring the equalizer and providing the decisive assist as the Asian side secured three valuable points.
South Korea Begins World Cup Campaign with Character and Determination
The match, played in Guadalajara, Mexico, marked South Korea’s opening game of the tournament. Expectations were high for captain Son Heung-min and his teammates, but the Korean side faced a difficult challenge against a physical Czech Republic squad.
Although South Korea controlled possession and created several chances in the opening half, neither side managed to break the deadlock before halftime. Son Heung-min came close on multiple occasions, but the Czech defense and goalkeeper Matej Kovar kept the score level.
Czech Republic Takes the Lead
The breakthrough arrived in the 59th minute when Czech captain Ladislav Krejci headed home from a set-piece situation. The goal stunned South Korea and temporarily shifted momentum in favor of the European side.
Despite falling behind, South Korea remained composed and continued attacking. Their persistence soon paid off thanks to the brilliance of Hwang In-beom.
Hwang In-beom Leads the Comeback
Just eight minutes after conceding, South Korea found an equalizer. Hwang In-beom produced an excellent finish after skillfully evading defenders and firing past the goalkeeper to make it 1-1.
The midfielder’s influence continued throughout the second half. His intelligent movement and creativity allowed South Korea to dominate possession and apply pressure on the Czech defense.
Oh Hyeon-gyu Scores the Winning Goal
South Korea completed the comeback in the 80th minute. Hwang In-beom delivered a perfectly timed pass to substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu, who calmly finished to give his team a 2-1 lead.
The Koreans then held firm during the closing stages. Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu made several important saves, while the defense prevented the Czech Republic from finding a late equalizer. A potential Czech goal was eventually ruled out for offside, preserving South Korea’s advantage.
Son Heung-min Endures Frustrating Night
While South Korea celebrated victory, captain Son Heung-min experienced a difficult evening. The experienced forward created opportunities and remained heavily involved in attack but was unable to add to his international goal tally.
Despite his lack of goals, Son’s movement and leadership helped South Korea maintain pressure throughout the match. Coach Hong Myung-bo praised the team’s resilience and fighting spirit after the final whistle.
A Historic Start for South Korea
The victory represents South Korea’s first win in a World Cup opening match since 2010. It also continues the nation’s impressive record against European opponents at recent tournaments, following memorable victories over Germany in 2018 and Portugal in 2022.
With three points secured, South Korea joined Mexico at the top of Group A and strengthened its chances of reaching the knockout stage. The team will next face Mexico, while the Czech Republic will look to recover against South Africa.
Match Summary
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group A
Venue: Guadalajara, Mexico
South Korea 2-1 Czech Republic
Goals
- 59′ – Ladislav Krejci (Czech Republic)
- 67′ – Hwang In-beom (South Korea)
- 80′ – Oh Hyeon-gyu (South Korea)
Key Performer
Hwang In-beom
- 1 Goal
- 1 Assist
- Match-winning performance
