sports

South Korea Edge Czech Republic in Thrilling World Cup Win

Published

3 hours ago

June 12, 2026

South Korea World Cup win sees them beat Czech Republic 2-1 as Oh Hyeon-gyu scores late decisive goal in a thrilling opener

South Korea national football team, led by captain Son Heung-min, secured a hard-fought South Korea World Cup win on Thursday, June 12, 2026, in Guadalajara, Mexico, defeating the Czech Republic 2-1 in a dramatic Group A opener marked by missed chances, sharp tactical shifts, and a late decisive strike.

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The match began with South Korea dominating possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities, but Son Heung-min and his teammates were repeatedly denied by poor finishing and resilient Czech defending.

Son Heung-min came close early, firing one effort over the bar before weaving past two defenders in a dangerous run that ultimately ended with a wide shot, reflecting South Korea’s early wastefulness.

The Czech Republic, however, struck first against the run of play when defender Ladislav Krejci rose at the near post to power a header beyond goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, briefly silencing the South Korean pressure.

Despite the setback, South Korea maintained their intensity, and the breakthrough finally came in the 67th minute when Hwang In-beom produced a composed finish, cleverly feinting before lifting the ball over goalkeeper Matej Kovar.

The South Korea World Cup win was sealed in the 80th minute when substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu converted a decisive move initiated from the right flank, completing a swift turnaround that shifted the momentum entirely.

The Czech Republic briefly believed they had restored parity, but their effort was ruled out for offside, deepening the tension in a frantic closing stage.

At the final whistle, Son Heung-min collapsed to the turf in visible relief and joy as South Korea celebrated a vital opening victory in their group campaign.