Korea's national soccer team conceded the opener to the Czech Republic in its first match of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, but leveled the score with Hwang In-beom's equalizer in the 67th minute.
Korea, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, made it 1-1 on Hwang In-beom's goal in the 67th minute in the Group A opener of the North and Central America World Cup against the Czech Republic at Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico, at 11 a.m. on the 12th (Korea time).
Korea had conceded first in the 59th minute to Ladislav Krejci. The Czech Republic took a 1-0 lead on Krejci's goal assisted by Vladimir Coufal.
Korea's equalizer came in the 67th minute. Hwang In-beom, breaking into the box, received a pass from Lee Kang-in and finished calmly in front of the opposing goalkeeper and defenders to open the Czech net.
After conceding first, coach Hong substituted Hwang Hee-chan for Lee Jae-sung in the 63rd minute. Then in the 69th minute, he took off Son Heung-min and Lee Tae-seok and brought on Oh Hyeon-gyu and Eom Ji-sung, changing up the attack and the flanks.
Korea finished the first half 0-0. Korea led 8-3 in first-half shots and did not allow the Czech Republic a shot on target.