South Korea kicked off their World Cup journey with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Czechia in a match held at the Guadalajara stadium, which saw a modest attendance. Despite creating numerous chances throughout the game, it was not until the closing stages that the Koreans managed to convert their efforts into goals.
The first half was dominated by Son Heung-min and his teammates, yet they struggled to break through the Czech defense. Son, the former Tottenham forward, came close on multiple occasions, including a powerful shot that flew over the bar and a dynamic run past two defenders that ended with a missed attempt on goal.
The second half began with an unexpected blow for South Korea as the Czechs took the lead. Ladislav Krejci capitalized on a set-piece, rising at the front post to head the ball beyond Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, putting Czechia ahead against the flow of play.
Late Surge Secures Victory for South Korea
South Korea’s persistence paid off as Hwang In-beom leveled the score in the 67th minute with a smart finish. After feinting a shot, he delicately chipped the ball over Czech goalkeeper Matek Kovar, restoring parity and reigniting Korean hopes.
The Czechs briefly thought they had regained the lead, but their goal was disallowed. Shortly thereafter, Hwang turned provider, delivering a precise cross from the right flank for substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu, who confidently finished to secure the winning goal just ten minutes from time.
As the match concluded, Son Heung-min was seen collapsing to the pitch in celebration, reflecting the relief and joy of the Korean squad after a tense encounter.
Looking ahead, South Korea is set to face co-host Mexico, who opened Group A with a 2-0 win over South Africa earlier on Thursday. The Czech Republic will meet South Africa in Atlanta on the same day, June 18, setting up intriguing fixtures as the group stage progresses.