FIFA World Cup: South Korea Rally Past Czech Republic in Opener

By Eppe Franklyne| South Korea produced a spirited comeback to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match on Thursday, with substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu scoring the decisive goal late in the contest.

The Koreans started brightly and created several opportunities, but captain Son Heung-min was unable to convert a number of promising chances. Despite South Korea’s dominance for large periods of the match, it was the Czech Republic that struck first against the run of play.

In the 59th minute, Czech captain Ladislav Krejci rose highest to head home from a long throw-in, giving his side a surprise lead and silencing the South Korean supporters.

However, the advantage lasted only eight minutes. Midfielder Hwang In-beom restored parity in the 67th minute with a composed finish, cleverly lifting the ball over the goalkeeper after a well-worked attacking move. The goal reignited South Korea’s momentum and intensified the battle for a winning start in Group A.

The Czech Republic thought they had regained the lead in the 77th minute when Tomas Soucek headed home from a free-kick delivery. However, after a review, the effort was ruled out for offside, handing South Korea a major reprieve.

The turning point came moments later as Hwang In-beom turned creator. The midfielder delivered a precise cut-back into the penalty area, allowing Oh Hyeon-gyu to finish from close range in the 80th minute and complete the South Korea Comeback Win.

South Korea successfully protected their lead during the closing stages to secure all three points and make a strong start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.

The result places South Korea behind group leaders Mexico, who defeated South Africa 2-0 earlier in the day. South Korea will face Mexico in Guadalajara next Thursday, while the Czech Republic will seek their first points when they take on South Africa in Atlanta.