South Korea defeats Czech Republic 2-1 in World Cup opener

South Korea rallied to beat the Czech Republic 2-1 in the first Group A match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Guadalajara, Mexico. The Czechs opened the scoring in the 13th minute through Krejci, but South Korea equalised in the 21st minute when In Hwang dribbled past a defender and finished with a deft chip. The winning goal came in the 34th minute after a low cross was struck by substitute Oh, completing a comeback.

The victory places South Korea level on points with host nation Mexico at the top of Group A, with both teams set to meet in the second round on 18 June. The Czech Republic will seek to rebound in their next match against South Africa.

Key moments included several saves by South Korean goalkeeper Seung Kim and missed chances by star forward Son, who plays for Los Angeles FC in the United States.