South Korea's national football team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, achieved a thrilling comeback victory against the Czech Republic in their opening match of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup.
On June 12, Korean time, South Korea defeated the Czech Republic 2-1 in the Group A opener held at the Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico. This marks only the fourth time in history that South Korea has won its first match in the World Cup group stage, and the first time in 16 years. After conceding an early goal to Ladislav Krejci of Wolverhampton in the 59th minute, South Korea equalized in the 67th minute with a goal from Hwang In-beom, assisted by Lee Kang-in of Paris Saint-Germain. Oh Hyun-kyu then scored the winning goal in the 80th minute, turning the match in South Korea's favor.
With this victory, South Korea secured three points and currently ranks second in the group, following Mexico, which defeated South Africa 2-0. Winning the opening match, often seen as a crucial turning point for advancing in the tournament, enhances South Korea's chances of reaching the knockout stage. In this tournament, which features 48 teams, the top three teams from each group can advance to the knockout rounds. Achieving two wins in the group stage significantly increases the likelihood of progressing to the next round.
South Korea will face Mexico at the same venue on June 19 and then take on South Africa at the Monterrey Stadium on June 25.
After the match, Oh Hyun-kyu expressed his gratitude, stating, "Just playing in the World Cup is an honor, and I am thankful. We will prepare well for the match against Mexico, continuing this good momentum." Coach Hong Myung-bo, when asked about preparations for the upcoming match against Mexico, replied, "We will prepare well over the next week."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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