GUADALAJARA – In an exciting encounter during the second match of the 2026 World Cup, South Korea showcased resilience and skill, overcoming the Czech Republic 2-1. Hwang In-beom played a pivotal role, scoring one goal and providing an assist, marking a significant moment in South Korea’s World Cup journey.
The match began with both teams struggling for momentum, leading to a lackluster first half that failed to excite fans. However, the Czech Republic found the back of the net first in the 59th minute, thanks to a well-placed header from captain Ladislav Krejci, following a long throw-in that caught the South Korean defense off guard.
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Despite the setback, South Korea refused to back down, equalizing in the 67th minute. Hwang In-beom executed a clever fake shot to navigate past two defenders before scoring, igniting hope among the South Korean supporters. The winning goal came in the 80th minute when Hwang’s precise cross found Oh Hyeon-gyu, who struck decisively, sealing the victory for South Korea.
The atmosphere at Guadalajara Stadium was electric, although the presence of empty seats was notable. After the final whistle, South Korean players celebrated with their fans, a moment of jubilation that highlighted the importance of this win.
Coach Hong Myung-bo expressed his satisfaction with the result, noting, “It was our first game and a very difficult one. The win itself makes me happy, but what’s even more positive is that our boys won by not giving up.” His faith in the team’s capabilities proved justified, as they rallied to secure their first opening World Cup win since 2010.
Historically, this win is significant for South Korea, who have now defeated European teams in the tournament for the third consecutive time, following victories over Portugal in 2022 and Germany in 2018. With star forward Son Heung-min leading the squad, South Korea controlled possession and created more scoring opportunities against the Czech Republic, who were participating in their first World Cup since 2006.
Son, aiming to become South Korea’s all-time leading goal scorer in World Cup history, had several chances but was unable to convert, missing a shot wide in the first half and having another close-range attempt saved in the second. Meanwhile, the Czech Republic had a goal disallowed in the 77th minute due to an offside call on Tomas Soucek, a moment that could have changed the game’s outcome.
Czech Republic coach Miroslav Koubek acknowledged the quality of the opponent, stating, “probably the better team won,” but expressed disappointment over missed opportunities that could have led to a different result. “We played very well; it could have been a draw, and we could have won as well,” he reflected.
The match drew an announced attendance of 44,985 at Guadalajara Stadium, which has a capacity of 45,664. The presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino added to the significance of the event, despite noticeable gaps in the stands.
For South Korea, this marks their 11th consecutive World Cup appearance and 12th overall, the most of any Asian nation. Their best performance remains the fourth-place finish achieved during the co-hosted tournament with Japan in 2002. Since then, South Korea has not progressed beyond the round of 16.
In a related highlight from Group A, co-host Mexico secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament opener held in Mexico City, setting the stage for a thrilling World Cup event.
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AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup
