Citizens, including the national team's official supporters Red Devils, look disappointed after conceding a goal while watching the Group A opener of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup between Korea and Czechia on a screen at Gwanghwamun Square in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the 12th. /Courtesy of News1

Korea's national soccer team conceded the opener to Czechia in its first match of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup.

Led by coach Hong Myung-bo, Korea conceded to Ladislav Krejci in the 14th minute of the second half in the Group A opener of the North and Central America World Cup against Czechia, held at Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico, at 11 a.m. on the 12th (Korea time).

Czechia took a 1-0 lead with a goal by Krejci assisted by Vladimir Coufal.

Korea finished the first half 0-0. Korea led shots 8-3, and on target, Korea had one while Czechia had none. Possession also favored Korea at 53% to Czechia's 47%.

Coach Hong deployed Son Heung-min (LAFC) up front with Lee Jae-sung (Mainz) and Lee Kang-in (Paris Saint-Germain) on the second line. After conceding, Korea changed its attack in the 18th minute of the second half by taking off Lee Jae-sung and bringing on Hwang Hee-chan.

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