South Korea beats Czech Republic 2-1 in World Cup 2026 opener

South Korea secured a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Guadalajara. The Czechs opened the scoring in the 59th minute, but Korea equalised eight minutes later when Lee Kang‑in fed Hwang In‑beom, who out‑maneuvered a defender and lobbed goalkeeper Matěj Kovář. Hwang then provided the decisive assist for substitute Oh Hyeon‑gyu, whose touch‑in‑one finish in the 80th minute clinched the win. A late disallowed Czech header and a crucial save by Korean keeper Kim Seung‑gyu preserved the result, placing South Korea second in Group A behind Mexico.

Following the match, South Korean coach Hong Myung‑bo confiscated Kang‑In Lee's mobile phone, reiterating a strict team policy that forbids digital distractions during the tournament. The disciplinary move underscored Hong's emphasis on collective focus as the squad seeks to advance beyond the group stage.