Photo : YONHAP News
South Korea defeated Czechia 2-1 in their Group A opener at Estadio Akron, Guadalajara, on Friday at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Czech Republic took the lead in the 58th minute when captain Ladislav Krejci headed in a long throw-in to beat goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu.
Korea equalized in the 67th minute through Hwang In-beom, who chipped the ball over the keeper finding space through Czechia’s defensive line.
Twelve minutes later, substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu put Korea ahead, converting a cross to complete the comeback.
Goalkeeper Kim made two crucial saves late in the match, one late in the second half and one with two minutes of extra time left on the clock, to preserve the lead.
The Taeguk Warriors will face Mexico at the same venue on June 18, followed by a match against South Africa at Estadio Monterrey in Guadalupe on June 24.
Korea is vying to advance to the Round of 16 for the second consecutive time since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and ultimately to the quarterfinals, which would be a first for the national team at a World Cup held overseas.
KBS 2TV will broadcast the match live.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup began its 39-day run with an opening ceremony at Mexico City Stadium on Thursday local time, featuring performances by global stars like Shakira, with Andrea Bocelli and K-pop singer EJAE singing the official tournament anthem.