South Korea’s Spectacular Comeback Secures Victory with Two Goals in 14 Minutes
News Summary
Prepared after editorial review.
- South Korea defeated the Czech Republic 2-1 in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
- The win was secured with two goals in 14 minutes during the second half at the Guadalajara stadium in Mexico.
- This marks South Korea’s 12th World Cup and their first victory against the Czech Republic, and the fourth time winning in their opening game.
May 29, Kathmandu – South Korea began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a successful 2-1 comeback victory against the Czech Republic, scoring two goals within just 14 minutes in the second half.
The match, held at Mexico’s Guadalajara stadium, saw the Czech Republic initially take the lead but ultimately succumb to South Korea’s resilient performance.
This victory marks South Korea’s first ever World Cup win over the Czech Republic, participating in their 12th World Cup tournament. It also represents the fourth time South Korea has won their opening match at a World Cup.
At the 59th minute, Ladislav Krejčí put the Czech Republic ahead with a goal, but the lead was short-lived. Eight minutes later, South Korea equalized when Hwang In-beom netted a goal in the 67th minute.
In the 77th minute, Czech player Tomáš Souček scored with a header from a free-kick; however, the goal was disallowed due to an offside position.
Then, in the 80th minute, South Korea’s Oh Hyun-gyu scored the decisive goal, securing the victory. No further goals followed, and South Korea triumphed.
With this win, South Korea earned three points in Group ‘A’ and currently hold second place. Mexico, also with three points, leads the group due to a superior goal difference.
The Czech Republic, now without points, stands third, while South Africa is last in the group.
Photo: Imago / Anadolu Agency