South Korea Stun Czechia With Late Comeback on World Cup Opening Day

South Korea produced a spirited comeback to defeat Czechia 2-1 at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, closing out the opening day of the 2026 World Cup with a victory that hinged on a frantic final half hour.

Czechia draw first blood

The Europeans took the lead on 59 minutes through captain Ladislav Krejčí, rewarding a disciplined first-hour display. For a spell it looked as though Czechia might see out a narrow win, but South Korea's quality and persistence soon turned the tie on its head.

The Korean response

Hwang In-beom levelled just eight minutes later, on 67, to ignite the Korean support. The momentum had shifted entirely, and on 80 minutes Oh Hyeon-gyu completed the turnaround with the winning goal, sparking jubilant scenes among the South Korean contingent.

Wild finish

Czechia threw bodies forward in search of an equaliser through a tense finale, but South Korea held firm to bank three precious points. The result left the Asian side well placed in Group A while Czechia faced an early uphill battle to advance.