2026 World Cup: South Korea’s dream debut—comeback win over the Czech Republic

South Korea gets off to a dream start in the World Cup. In Guadalajara, Mexico, the Koreans win their first Group A match, defeating the Czech Republic 2-1 in a thrilling contest.

The Czech Republic takes the lead through Krejci. South Korea didn’t lose their composure and found their hero in Hwang In-beom. The Feyenoord midfielder first scored the equalizer and then provided the assist that allowed Oh Hyeon-gyu to score the decisive 2-1 goal.

Czech Republic coach Koubek said: “The better team probably won, partly because we made a few mistakes. We played very well; it could have ended in a draw, and we could even have won,” concluded the Czech Republic coach.

Thanks to this crucial victory, South Korea joins Mexico (which won its opener against South Africa 2-0) at the top of Group A.