South Korea began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a thrilling victory. On Thursday, in the Group A clash played in Guadalajara, the team defeated Czechia 2-1. In this match, Hwang In-beom scored one goal and provided one assist. It was this player who completely changed the complexion of the game in the final half-hour. The South Korean side looked the better team throughout and walked away with all three points.
Captain Son Heung-min was at the heart of South Korea's attacking approach right from the start. His efforts bore fruit in the 59th minute — but the lead went to Czechia. Captain Ladislav Krejci put his side ahead with a superb header. However, that advantage lasted just eight minutes. South Korea drew level in the 67th minute through Hwang In-beom's goal.
Tomas Soucek's Goal Ruled Out by the Referee
Czechia found the net in the 77th minute from a free-kick, headed home by Tomas Soucek, but luck was not on their side. The players had already begun celebrating when the assistant referee raised the offside flag and the goal was disallowed. Just three minutes later, South Korea turned the match on its head. Substitute Oh Hyun-gyu scored in the 80th minute to hand South Korea the lead for the first time.
Czechia pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing moments, but South Korea defended resolutely and opened their campaign with a win. After this result, South Korea have drawn level with Mexico in the points table; Mexico beat South Africa 2-0 to top Group A on goal difference. South Korea will face Mexico next Thursday in Guadalajara, a crucial fixture for deciding standings in the group. Czechia, meanwhile, will now take the field in Atlanta in search of a win against South Africa.
