South Korea made a winning start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with an impressive 2-1 comeback victory over the Czech Republic in Guadalajara, Mexico.
The Asian side fell behind in the second half but responded strongly to claim all three points. Midfielder Hwang In-beom played a decisive role, scoring the equaliser before setting up the winning goal.
As a result, South Korea joined Mexico at the top of Group A after the hosts defeated South Africa earlier in the day.
South Korea Controlled the First Half
South Korea looked more dangerous during the opening 45 minutes. Captain Son Heung-min created several opportunities and remained the biggest attacking threat on the pitch.
The Czech Republic struggled to keep possession for long periods. Meanwhile, South Korea enjoyed more of the ball and regularly pushed forward through Son, Lee Kang-in and Lee Jae-sung.
However, despite creating chances, South Korea could not find a breakthrough before halftime.
The teams entered the break with the score locked at 0-0.
Czech Republic Strike First
The match came alive after the interval.
In the 59th minute, the Czech Republic took the lead through Ladislav Krejci. The defender powered home a header after a long throw caused problems inside the South Korean penalty area.
The goal stunned South Korea, who had looked the better side for much of the contest.
For a brief period, it appeared that the Czech Republic’s direct style and aerial strength might be enough to secure victory.
Hwang In-beom Changes the Game
South Korea responded brilliantly.
Just eight minutes after falling behind, Hwang In-beom produced a moment of quality to level the score.
After receiving a pass inside the box, he showed excellent composure. He beat his marker and delicately chipped the ball over the goalkeeper. The finish brought South Korea back into the contest and shifted momentum completely.
Furthermore, the equalizer energized the Korean players and their supporters inside the stadium.
Dramatic Twist Before the Winner
The Czech Republic thought they had regained the lead when Tomas Soucek headed home from a set piece.
However, the assistant referee quickly raised the flag for offside. The goal was disallowed after review, keeping the score at 1-1.
Only moments later, South Korea delivered the decisive blow.
Hwang In-beom made another excellent run and sent a dangerous cross into the penalty area. Substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu connected from close range and found the net to complete the turnaround.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among the South Korean players.
Strong Defensive Finish Secures Victory
The Czech Republic pushed forward during the closing stages in search of an equaliser.
Nevertheless, South Korea remained disciplined. Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu produced a crucial save in stoppage time to deny Michal Sadilek and preserve the lead.
South Korea successfully managed the final minutes and held on for an important victory.
When the final whistle sounded, the Korean players celebrated a result that could prove vital in the race for qualification.
Hwang In-beom Named Player of the Match
Hwang In-beom was the standout performer of the game.
The midfielder not only scored South Korea’s equaliser but also created the winning goal. His calmness under pressure and creativity in the final third helped transform the match.
As a result, he was widely regarded as the player of the match.
What the Result Means
The victory puts South Korea level on points with host nation Mexico at the top of Group A.
Moreover, it gives Hong Myung-bo’s side valuable momentum ahead of their upcoming clash with Mexico.
For the Czech Republic, the defeat is disappointing. Still, their aerial dominance and set-piece threat showed they remain capable of challenging for qualification.
The battle for the knockout stage is only beginning, but South Korea could hardly have asked for a better start.