GUADALAJARA, Mexico — South Korea came from behind to defeat Czechia 2-1 on Thursday and make a winning start to its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in Group A.
After a goalless first half at Estadio Guadalajara, Czech captain Ladislav Krejci put his side ahead in the 59th minute with a header from a set piece.
South Korea responded quickly, with Hwang In-beom leveling the score eight minutes later after the Asians had created the better chances throughout the match.
Czechia thought it had regained the lead when Tomas Soucek headed home from a free kick, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
The decisive moment came in the 80th minute when Oh Hyeon-gyu met a cross from Hwang In-beom to complete the turnaround and secure all three points for South Korea.
The victory leaves South Korea second in Group A behind Mexico on goal difference, while Czechia sits third ahead of South Africa following the opening round of matches.
Source: Saudi Gazette