Korea secure 2–1 win as In-beom Hwang sparks comeback

Korea Republic began their World Cup campaign with a 2–1 win over Czech Republic, overturning a 59th-minute header from Ladislav Krejci. The hosts had dominated possession and the clearer chances but fell behind to a set-piece goal. In a decisive 21-minute spell, In-beom Hwang equalised in the 67th minute and then provided the cross for substitute Hyeon-gyu Oh's 80th-minute winner.

Czech Republic also had a Tomas Soucek header ruled out for offside at 77 minutes, but Korea's pressure proved irresistible. In-beom Hwang produced the match-defining contribution. He finished Kang-in Lee's incisive pass for the equaliser, then turned provider with the winning cross thirteen minutes later.

Earlier in the second half he tested Matej Kovar with a right-footed shot, and his movement between the lines and link play helped Korea maintain their territorial dominance. Hwang was withdrawn at 84 minutes with the result secure.

Korea Republic

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