South Korea successfully overturned a second-half deficit to secure a thrilling two-one victory over the Czech Republic in their opening fixture of the 2026 World Cup. The dramatic result at Estadio Guadalajara marks the first time in four tournament editions that the Asian powerhouse has begun their campaign with a win, driven by a resilient squad that refused to fold under pressure.

Despite dominating possession and offensive chances throughout a goalless first half, the South Korean squad found themselves trailing against the run of play just before the hour mark. Having failed to register a single shot on target in the opening forty-five minutes, the Czechs capitalised on a long throw-in from Vladimir Coufal in the fifty-ninth minute. Captain Ladislav Krejci rose above the defence to powerfully head the ball home, giving his side a shock advantage.

The South Korean response to falling behind was both swift and clinical. Just eight minutes after conceding, midfielder Hwang In-beom sparked the comeback following a well-placed pass from Lee Kang-in inside the penalty area. Displaying immense composure, Hwang feigned a shot to draw goalkeeper Matej Kovar off his line before delicately lifting the ball over the stranded keeper to level the proceedings.

Capitalising on their renewed momentum, South Korea struck the decisive blow in the eightieth minute. Hwang turned provider, delivering a precise cross for substitute striker Oh Hyeon-gyu to tap in from close range. The dramatic turnaround was preserved in the dying moments by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, who produced a spectacular low save to deny Adam Hlozek and thwart a frantic late push from the Czech Republic, sealing a vital three points for his nation.