South Korea and Czech Republic are underway in their Group A clash on the opening day of the 2026 World Cup. Estadio Akron plays host as LAFC’s Son Heung-min captains Korea and the Czechs return to the tournament for the first time since 2006.

FIFA have released a statement regarding the empty seats during the World Cup match between South Korea and Czechia.

Czechia, who beat Ireland in a play-off in March to qualify for the World Cup in the USA and Canada, lost their tournament opener to South Korea after ex-Celtic striker Oh Hyeon-gyu scored a late winn

South Korea defeated Czechia 2–1 in a FIFA World Cup group match after recovering from a set-piece goal conceded in the second half. Tactical adjustments, higher tempo play and a late counter-attack helped secure victory after dominating possession earlier.

Second-half goals by Oh Hyeon-gyu and Hwang In-beom steered South Korea to a win over Czechia in a Group A encounter.

Asian giants South Korea face two-time runners-up Czechia in the second match of the opening day of World Cup 2026.