Korea Republic Rally Past Czechia 2–1 in Group A Opener

Korea Republic defeated Czechia 2–1 at Guadalajara Stadium to close out the opening day of World Cup 2026 group play. Ladislav Krejčí gave the Czechs a 59th-minute lead with a header from Vladimír Coufal's long throw, but Hwang In-beom levelled eight minutes later after turning Lee Kang-in's pass over goalkeeper Matěj Kovář, and substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu finished Hwang's cutback in the 80th minute to complete the comeback.

The match stayed goalless at half-time despite Korea Republic dominating possession. Hwang In-beom was named Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match after his goal and assist. Korea finished with 62% possession, 15 shots and six on target to Czechia's seven and four. Three yellow cards were shown to Korean players late on, including Lee Gi-Hyuk in stoppage time.

The result leaves Group A with Mexico and Korea Republic level on three points after matchday one, with Czechia and South Africa yet to register a point. Korea next face Mexico on 18 June in Guadalajara, while Czechia meet South Africa in Atlanta on the same day.