A comeback win shows resilience, useful context for a fan following this team's campaign.
South Korea rallies to beat Czechia 2-1 Story flow and key facts
South Korea opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Czechia in Group A. After a quiet first half, Czechia struck first in the 59th minute through Ladislav Krejčí, who powered home a header from a long throw-in. South Korea responded strongly in the second half, with Hwang In-beom leveling the score in the 67th minute with a composed finish after drifting into the box. Substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu secured the win in the 80th minute, sliding in to convert a low cross from the right flank. Despite Czechia’s physical approach and early success, South Korea’s midfield control and persistence paid off. Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu made crucial late saves to preserve the lead, and the team held on through six minutes of stoppage time.
Facts
- South Korea defeated Czechia 2-1 in their opening 2026 World Cup Group A match.
- Ladislav Krejčí scored for Czechia in the 59th minute with a header from a long throw.
- Hwang In-beom equalized for South Korea in the 67th minute with a right-footed shot into the far corner.
- Oh Hyeon-gyu scored the winning goal in the 80th minute from a close-range finish.
- Kim Seung-gyu made a key save late in stoppage time to preserve the lead.
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