South Korea secured a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in an entertaining FIFA World Cup opener, coming from behind to claim all three points and strengthen its position in Group A.
Despite conceding first, South Korea maintained control for much of the match and created several scoring opportunities. The result gives the team an important early boost in the group standings, where co-host Mexico also opened its campaign with a win.
Czech Republic Takes the Lead
South Korea dominated possession and attacking play during large periods of the contest, but Czech goalkeeper Matěj Kovář produced a series of key saves to keep his side in the match.
The breakthrough came in the 59th minute when Ladislav Krejčí headed home from a long throw-in to give the Czech Republic a 1-0 lead against the run of play.
South Korea Responds in Second Half
The Czech side struggled to hold its advantage as South Korea continued to apply pressure. The equalizer arrived in the 67th minute, bringing the match level and shifting momentum in favor of the Asian side.
The Czech Republic thought it had restored its lead in the 77th minute when Tomáš Souček found the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a review.
Late Winner Secures Three Points
Just three minutes after the disallowed goal, South Korean substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu scored the decisive winner, completing the comeback and sealing a memorable 2-1 victory.
With the win, South Korea moves level on three points at the top of Group A alongside Mexico, which defeated South Africa 2-0 in its opening match.
The result leaves South Korea well positioned as the group stage continues, while the Czech Republic faces pressure to recover points in its upcoming fixtures.
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