⌂ Home News South Korea Edges Czech Republic 2-1 in World Cup Group A Opener

South Korea Edges Czech Republic 2-1 in World Cup Group A Opener

South Korea Edges Czech Republic 2-1 in World Cup Group A Opener
South Korean players celebrating a goal during a World Cup match
A A Text Size16px

South Korea defeated the Czech Republic 2-1 in a World Cup Group A match at the Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico on Friday, June 12, 2026.

National midfielder In-beom Hwang led the victory by scoring the equalizing goal and assisting the game-winner.

>>> Seattle Seahawks Unveil Super Bowl LX Rings Featuring Moving Parts

The match began at 4:00 AM Dutch time, marking the first of four scheduled World Cup games at the venue.

Security at the stadium remained stable following a military operation against a drug cartel earlier this year.

South Korea controlled the early offense, with Czech goalkeeper Matěj Kovář saving a 12th-minute shot from Kang-in Lee.

Kovář made consecutive saves against Hwang and Heung-min Son at the start of the second half.

>>> Hurricanes Beat Golden Knights 4-2 in Game 5, One Win from Stanley Cup

The Czech Republic opened the scoring against the run of play in the 59th minute. Ladislav Krejčí scored a header following a long throw-in executed by Vladimír Coufal.

Hwang equalized for South Korea in the 67th minute by netting a chip shot after a solo run.

Hyeon-gyu Oh scored the decisive goal ten minutes before the final whistle by tapping in a pass from Hwang.

Hwang was substituted six minutes before the end of regulation time under applause from the South Korean supporters.

>>> Jordi Cruijff Targets Viktor Tsygankov After Girona Exit Request

Group A is currently led by tournament host Mexico, which defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match on Thursday.

J
Editors Team
Author: Johan Robert
📰 Latest Updates