FIFA World Cup: Hwang In-Beom inspires South Korea's comeback win over Czech Republic
Zapopan, June 12
South Korea came from behind to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 in a thrilling Group A clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Friday, earning a valuable three points at Estadio Akron in Mexico's Zapopan.
The Taegeuk Warriors were the brighter side from the outset and created better chances during the opening stages. Lee Han-beom went close to breaking the deadlock when his header flashed narrowly over the crossbar, while Lee Kang-in forced Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar into a smart save with a powerful long-range effort.
The Czech Republic gradually settled into the contest and nearly struck from a set piece, but captain Tomas Soucek fired wide after finding space inside the area. Despite South Korea's attacking intent, clear-cut opportunities remained scarce before the interval.
Son Heung-min came closest when he surged forward on a promising run, only to drag his effort wide in the 39th minute as the teams went into halftime level at 0-0.
South Korea resumed on the front foot after the break and repeatedly tested Kovar. The goalkeeper produced important saves to deny Hwang In-beom, Lee Jae-sung and Son, keeping the European side in the match.
Those missed opportunities appeared costly when the Czech Republic opened the scoring just before the hour mark. Vladimir Coufal launched a long throw into the penalty area, and captain Ladislav Krejci rose highest to head home, beating Kim Seung-gyu for his sixth international goal.
However, the Czech lead lasted only a matter of minutes. South Korea responded strongly, with Hwang In-beom finishing calmly midway through the second half to restore parity and set up a tense finale.
The Czechs thought they had regained the advantage when Soucek headed into the net, but celebrations were cut short by an offside flag. South Korea then delivered the decisive blow in the closing stages. Substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu latched onto an excellent pass from Hwang and converted from close range to complete the turnaround.
The Czech Republic pushed hard for an equaliser, but Kim produced a crucial save to deny substitute Adam Hlozek late on.
South Korea held firm to secure victory and move into a strong position ahead of their next Group A encounter against co-hosts Mexico, while the Czech Republic will look to bounce back against South Africa.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Son Heung-min is always a threat, but why can't he score in big matches? He really should have buried that chance in the first half. Still, South Korea showed great character to come from behind. Our Asian brothers are making us proud! 🎉
This is why I love the World Cup—unpredictable drama! Czech Republic will be kicking themselves after that disallowed goal. The offside trap by South Korea was brilliant. Oh Hyeon-gyu, what a supersub! 🏆
South Korea ke midfield ne toh jail bhar diya! Hwang In-beom and Lee Jae-sung were on fire 🔥. But respect to Kovar in goal for Czech Republic—he kept them in the game. Indian football needs to study such tactical discipline.
Honestly, I feel bad for the Czech Republic. They fought hard, but South Korea's bench strength made the difference. Oh Hyeon-gyu came on and changed the game! That's what you call impact player. 🇨🇿 better luck next time.
What a match! ⚽ However, South Korea need to work on their finishing—they created so many chances but only scored two. Against Mexico, that could be costly. Still, proud of our Asian brothers. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳🇰🇷
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