South Korea beats Czech Republic 2‑1 to kick off World Cup with a strong start

South Korea began its World Cup campaign with a 2‑1 victory over the Czech Republic on Thursday, converting several key chances to secure the win.

Although the Czech team appeared poised to exploit South Korea’s early inefficiency, substitute Oh Hyeon‑gyu scored the decisive goal in a Guadalajara stadium that was not full.

South Korea, led by Son Heung‑min, dominated the first half but could not find the back of the net.

Son, a former Tottenham player, struck a shot over the bar before making a swift run to his left, slipping past two Czech defenders, only to miss the target.

The second half opened with a Czech goal: Ladislav Krejci headed the ball past Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung‑gyu from the front post.

South Korea’s Hwang In‑beom equalised with a clever move, faking a shot before delicately curling the ball over Czech keeper Matek Kovar on 67 minutes.

After a Czech goal was disallowed, Hwang set up Oh for a second goal, delivering a cross from the right that Oh converted.

When the referee blew the final whistle, Son fell to the turf in celebration.

South Korea will meet co‑hosts Mexico, who defeated South Africa 2‑0 in Group A’s opening match earlier Thursday, on June 18. The Czech Republic will face South Africa in Atlanta on the same day.

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