South Korea secure World Cup victory over Czech Republic in Guadalajara

South Korea secured their first victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, defeating the Czech Republic 2-1 in their opening Group A match at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara. The result marks a significant institutional milestone for the Asian side, who dominated much of the contest but relied on a decisive late intervention from substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu to secure all three points.

The match began with the Czech Republic taking an early lead against the run of play. Ladislav Krejci powered a header past South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, disrupting pre-match expectations that had favoured the Koreans. Despite this setback, Son Heung-min’s side maintained pressure, creating numerous opportunities in the first half. However, wastefulness in the final third allowed the Czechs to retain their advantage, with Son Heung-min missing key chances, including a shot that flew over the bar and a wide attempt after evading two defenders.

The turning point arrived in the second half as South Korea’s sustained pressure began to yield returns. In the 67th minute, Hwang In-beom equalised with a clever finish, faking a shot and caressing the ball over Czech goalkeeper Matek Kovar. The momentum shifted further when a Czech goal was disallowed prior to Hwang’s goal, and shortly after, Hwang provided the assist for the winning moment.

Oh Hyeon-gyu, introduced as a substitute, scored the decisive goal in the 80th minute. Receiving a cross from Hwang In-beom on the right, Oh slotted the ball home to complete the turnaround. The victory was celebrated by Son Heung-min, who sank to the turf in relief as the final whistle sounded, capping a performance that had been characterised by dominance without conversion until the closing stages.

The stadium in Guadalajara was noted as being far from full capacity during the encounter. South Korea’s next fixture is scheduled against tournament co-hosts Mexico on 18 June. Mexico, who defeated South Africa 2-0 in the tournament’s opening Group A game earlier on Thursday, will present a formidable challenge for the Koreans. Meanwhile, the Czech Republic are set to face South Africa in Atlanta on the same day.