The Taegeuk Warriors started brightly and looked the more dangerous side during the opening stages. Lee Han-beom came close with a header that drifted narrowly over the crossbar, while Lee Kang-in tested goalkeeper Matej Kovar with a powerful long-range effort.

The Czech Republic responded through Tomas Soucek, who fired wide after a corner, but clear chances remained limited before the break.

South Korea's best opportunity of the first half fell to captain Son Heung-min in the 39th minute. After a promising run, the forward guided his shot wide of the target as the teams went into the interval locked at 0-0.

Hong Myung-bo's side returned with greater intent after the restart. Kovar was forced into several important saves, denying Hwang In-beom, Lee Jae-sung and Son as South Korea continued to push forward.

Despite their dominance, it was the Czech Republic who struck first just before the hour mark. A long throw from Vladimir Coufal found captain Ladislav Krejci, whose header beat Kim Seung-gyu to give his side the lead and score his sixth international goal.

The advantage lasted only a few minutes. South Korea responded strongly and Hwang In-beom levelled the match with a composed finish midway through the second half.

The Czechs thought they had regained the lead when Soucek headed home, but celebrations were cut short by an offside flag. That decision proved crucial.

With just minutes remaining, substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu became the hero. The striker latched onto an excellent pass from Hwang and finished from close range to complete the turnaround and hand South Korea all three points.

The Czech Republic pushed hard for an equaliser, but Kim produced an outstanding save to deny substitute Adam Hlozek late on.

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo praised his players' character after the comeback victory.

"The players showed incredible fighting spirit," said Hong. "Conceding the first goal was difficult, but our preparations for the altitude and our tactical adjustments gave us the momentum to push through."

Hong also highlighted the impact of his substitutes, adding: "Oh Hyeon-gyu coming on and scoring the winner shows that every single player is ready to make an impact whenever they are called upon."

The victory gives South Korea an important early advantage in the group ahead of their clash with co-hosts Mexico, while the Czech Republic will look to bounce back against South Africa.

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