The drama of the 2026 FIFA World Cup continued on day one as South Korea staged a comeback to beat the Czech Republic 2-1 in the second Group A clash in Zapopan.
It looked like the Czech Republic were on course to secure all three points after captain Ladislav Krejci rose highest to power home a header early in the second half, giving the Europeans the lead and putting them in control of the match.
But South Korea responded quickly and showed their resilience. Midfielder Hwang In-Beom brought his side level just minutes later with a smartly-taken finish, swinging the momentum in Asia’s favor. The equaliser sparked new energy into the Korean side, and they kept pushing for more.
Their pressure eventually paid off when substitute Oh Hyeon-Gyu completed the turnaround, finishing off a move that Hwang In-Beom helped create to seal a huge victory for South Korea.
The match added another layer of excitement to what has already been a chaotic start to the tournament.
Earlier in the opening fixture, co-hosts Mexico defeated South Africa in a fiery encounter at the Estadio Azteca, a match that made World Cup history for all the wrong reasons. Three players were sent off — the first time that has ever happened in an opening World Cup game.
South Africa were reduced to nine men after Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane both saw red, while Mexico captain Cesar Montes was also sent off deep into stoppage time. It marked the most red cards in a single World Cup match since 2006.
There was also an emotional highlight for Mexico as veteran striker Raul Jimenez scored their second goal with a powerful header. The moment was especially significant for Jimenez, who fought back from a life-threatening skull fracture suffered six years ago while playing for Wolves. The forward appeared emotional as he celebrated, with many fans recognizing the incredible journey behind the goal.
Off the pitch, the tournament kicked off in style with a star-studded opening ceremony at Estadio Azteca. Global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy thrilled fans as they headlined the event, the first of three opening ceremonies planned across the host nations, with the United States and Canada set to host theirs in the coming days.
With thrilling comebacks, emotional moments, and high drama already unfolding, the 2026 World Cup is proving it will be a tournament to remember.
