South Korea Fight Back to Beat Czech Republic 2-1 in World Cup

GUADALAJARA, Mexico, June 11 — South Korea came from behind to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 in their opening Group A match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Thursday, joining Mexico at the top of the standings with three points.

Goals from Hwang In-beom and substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu helped the Koreans overturn a second-half deficit after Ladislav Krejci had given the Czech Republic the lead.

The match, played in Guadalajara, saw South Korea dominate possession and create numerous chances, although captain Son Heung-min endured a frustrating evening in front of goal. The veteran forward missed several opportunities and remains two goals short of becoming his country's all-time leading scorer.

The Czech Republic broke the deadlock in the 59th minute when Krejci rose highest to head home from a long throw delivered by Vladimir Coufal.

However, South Korea responded strongly. Just eight minutes later, Lee Kang-in produced a brilliant through ball to Hwang In-beom, who cut inside and curled a precise right-footed shot into the far corner to level the score.

The winning goal arrived when Hwang turned provider, sending a dangerous low cross into the six-yard box that substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu converted from close range.

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo praised his players’ determination after the comeback victory.

"Before the match, I told the players two things: never give up until the end and play together as one team," Hong said after the game.

The Czech Republic thought they had equalized late in the match when Tomas Soucek headed home from a free kick, but the goal was ruled out for offside following the assistant referee's flag.

Czech coach Miroslav Koubek admitted his side paid the price for defensive mistakes.

"We made some mistakes. Looking back, we could have prevented both goals. We created chances, but our opponents were very quick," Koubek said.

The result marks a disappointing return to the World Cup for the Czech Republic, who are appearing in the tournament for the first time in two decades.

South Korea now prepare for a crucial clash against co-hosts Mexico on June 18, while the Czech Republic will face South Africa in Atlanta on the same day.