South Korea and Czechia will kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey when they meet in Guadalajara on Thursday in a Group A fixture that could prove crucial in determining who advances to the knockout stages.
Neither side enters the tournament among the favourites, but both will view a group containing Mexico and South Africa as an opportunity to make a deep run. With only one previous World Cup appearance for Czechia in the last two decades and South Korea seeking to recreate past giant-killing exploits, the opening match carries significant importance.
Son leads South Korea's hopes once again
For South Korea, much of the spotlight remains firmly on captain Son Heung-min. The Tottenham Hotspur star, now 33, is playing what could be his final World Cup and remains the face of Korean football.
However, this South Korean side is not solely dependent on Son. Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee Kang-in has emerged as one of Asia's most technically gifted players, while Mainz playmaker Lee Jae-sung provides creativity and intelligence in attacking areas.
Manager Hong Myung-bo has had to adapt his plans due to injuries in midfield, prompting a tactical shift towards a three-man defence. Germany-born midfielder Jen Castrop adds flexibility, but South Korea's biggest challenge will be breaking through Czechia's physically imposing backline.
The Koreans have built a reputation for upsetting football heavyweights, famously defeating Germany in 2018 and Portugal in 2022. Their pace, movement and technical quality could once again make them dangerous opponents.
Also Read | Iran fans left stranded after World Cup ticket allocation revoked days before tournament
Czechia banking on strength and aerial dominance
Czechia return to the World Cup for the first time since 2006 after navigating a difficult qualification route. While they may lack the star-studded midfield talent of previous generations, they remain a disciplined and well-organised team.
Their approach is straightforward but effective. Wingbacks are tasked with delivering crosses into the box for striker Patrik Schick, whose aerial ability remains one of the strongest weapons in European football. Alongside him, the towering Tomas Chory and midfielder Tomas Soucek provide additional physical presence.
This direct style could cause problems for South Korea, particularly from set pieces, where centre-back Kim Min-jae will have a major responsibility.
Also Read | Spain enter FIFA World Cup 2026 as favourites, with Lamine Yamal leading a talented, balanced squad
Creative sparks could decide the contest
Despite their physical identity, Czechia possess creative threats. Pavel Sulc arrives after an impressive season in France, while Lukas Provod adds attacking invention from midfield.
For South Korea, Lee Kang-in's ability to unlock defences may prove decisive. If he can find space between the lines and combine effectively with Son, the Asian side could expose Czechia's slower defensive transitions.
The match will be available on ITV1 in the UK, Fox Sports in the U.S., Zee5 in India and SBS in Australia.
