South Korea kicked off their FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Czech Republic on Thursday, overcoming missed chances to secure all three points in their opening Group A match.
Despite dominating large spells of the game, the Koreans had to come from behind before substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu scored the decisive winner in the 80th minute at the Guadalajara Stadium.
Son-Led Korea dominate early stages
Led by captain Son Heung-min, South Korea controlled possession and created numerous opportunities during the first half but struggled to convert their dominance into goals.
Son came close on multiple occasions, blasting one effort over the crossbar before weaving past two defenders only to send his shot narrowly wide.
The Czech Republic weathered the pressure and entered the break level despite spending much of the opening period on the defensive.
Czech Republic strike first
The second half opened with a surprise breakthrough for the Czech side.
Against the run of play, Ladislav Krejci rose highest at the near post to power a header beyond goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, giving the Europeans a 1-0 lead.
The goal briefly shifted momentum, but South Korea continued to push forward in search of an equaliser.
Hwang and Oh complete comeback
South Korea eventually found the breakthrough in the 67th minute through Hwang In-beom.
The midfielder showed composure inside the box, disguising a shot before delicately lifting the ball over Czech goalkeeper Matek Kovar to level the scores.
The Czechs later had a goal ruled out before South Korea completed the turnaround.
Hwang turned provider in the 80th minute, delivering a cross from the right flank that was expertly finished by Oh Hyeon-gyu to seal the victory.
At the final whistle, Son Heung-min dropped to the turf in celebration after South Korea secured a crucial opening win.
Next fixtures
South Korea will next face co-hosts Mexico on 18 June after Mexico opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa.
Meanwhile, the Czech Republic will seek their first points of the tournament when they take on South Africa on the same day.
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