South Korea staged an impressive second-half comeback to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 and secure a vital three points in their opening match of the World Cup.
After controlling much of the contest but failing to convert their chances, the South Koreans found themselves trailing midway through the second half before producing a strong response to turn the game around.
The Asian side dominated possession and created the better opportunities during the opening 45 minutes, with captain Son Heung-min at the heart of most attacking moves. However, South Korea’s inability to find the breakthrough left the match goalless at half-time.
Son came closest to opening the scoring, first sending an effort wide from outside the penalty area before missing a golden chance shortly before the interval when he failed to properly connect with the ball in front of goal.
Despite being second-best for long periods, the Czech Republic took the lead in the 59th minute with their first shot on target. Defender Ladislav Krejci rose highest to head home from a long throw-in, stunning the South Korean side.
The goal briefly threatened to derail South Korea’s positive performance, but they responded with determination and composure.
Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Hwang In-beom produced a composed finish, delicately lifting the ball over goalkeeper Matej Kovar after breaking through the Czech defence.
With momentum firmly on their side, South Korea continued to press for a winner and eventually found it four minutes from full-time.
Oh Hyeon-Gyu emerged as the hero, scoring in the 86th minute to complete the turnaround and spark jubilant celebrations among South Korean players and supporters.
The victory gives South Korea an important early advantage in their World Cup campaign and rewards a performance that saw them dominate large portions of the match.
For the Czech Republic, the result will be a bitter disappointment after taking the lead against the run of play and appearing on course for a valuable opening-point haul before South Korea’s late surge changed the outcome.
