Korea Republic staged a determined comeback to defeat Czechia 2-1 in a lively Group A encounter at Guadalajara Stadium on 11 June 2026, with Hwang Inbeom and Oh Hyeongyu turning the game around after Ladislav Krejci had given the Europeans the lead.
Czechia struck first in the 59th minute when Krejci powered home a header from a set piece, punishing Korea Republic despite earlier pressure from Hwang Inbeom, Lee Jaesung and Son Heungmin, all of whom had been denied by an inspired Matej Kovar in goal.
The breakthrough came in the 67th minute when Hwang Inbeom restored parity with a composed finish after finding space inside the box. The midfielder, who had been central to Korea Republic’s attacking rhythm, lifted his side back into contention after sustained pressure.
Korea Republic completed the turnaround in the 80th minute when substitute Oh Hyeongyu converted a precise cutback from Hwang Inbeom, sealing a crucial three points for the Asian side in front of 44,985 spectators.
Despite late changes from Czechia in search of an equaliser, Korea Republic held firm through added time to secure victory in a tightly contested Group A match that swung momentum after each key moment.
