South Korea Stun Czech Republic In 2026 World Cup Opener

According to Ireporter Online, South Korea produced a spirited comeback to defeat Czech Republic 2-1 in their opening 2026 World Cup match at Estadio Guadalajara, with substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu scoring a late winner to seal all three points.

The match saw South Korea dominate possession and create the better chances early on, with captain Son Heung-min heavily involved in attack. The Tottenham star registered multiple first-half attempts, but Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar stood firm, producing key saves to keep the game level heading into halftime.

Despite South Korea’s control, it was Czech Republic who struck first in the 59th minute. Captain Ladislav Krejci powered home a header from a long throw-in delivered by Vladimir Coufal, giving the underdogs a surprise lead with their first shot on target.

However, the advantage was short-lived. Eight minutes later, Hwang In-beom restored parity after being set up inside the box by Lee Kang-in. The midfielder showed composure to beat Kovar with a clever finish, bringing South Korea back into the contest.

Czech Republic thought they had regained the lead in the 78th minute when Tomas Soucek scored from a free-kick, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review confirmed an offside infringement.

That decision proved costly, as South Korea immediately capitalized. Hwang In-beom turned provider this time, delivering a precise cross that Oh Hyeon-gyu converted from close range to complete the turnaround.

Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu played a crucial role in preserving the win, making late saves to deny Adam Hlozek and Michal Sadilek as Czech Republic pushed for an equalizer.

The victory marks South Korea’s first opening-match win in four World Cup tournaments, while Czech Republic will now look to recover in their next fixture against South Africa. South Korea will face co-hosts Mexico in their next group game.