South Korea secured a winning start to their World Cup Group A campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over the Czech Republic in Guadalajara. After falling behind by a goal, the South Koreans rallied to win, supported by a festive crowd and significant local Mexican support.
Second-half goals from Hwang In-beom and substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu steered South Korea to the win. Oh Hyeon-gyu, who was brought on in the second half, scored the decisive winning goal in the 80th minute.
Following the match, coach Hong Myung-bo stated that his team had followed his pre-match instructions to the letter. He also defended veteran captain Son, who missed five chances during the first half of the encounter.
With this victory, South Korea joins Mexico at the top of the Group A standings with three points. Mexico also secured three points after defeating nine-man South Africa 2-0 in the tournament opener held in Mexico City.