Four years after being knocked out by Brazil in the Round of 16 at the Qatar World Cup, South Korea will be confident about their prospects of advancing past the group stage for a second consecutive tournament summer.

In the 2026 World Cup, South Korea find themselves in Group A alongside Czechia, co-hosts Mexico, and South Africa. Anything short of reaching the Round of 32 would be seen as both a setback and a wasted opportunity for the Asian side.

Given how evenly matched this group looks on paper, securing an early win could be crucial, although many might prioritise avoiding defeat in the opener. With eight third-placed teams progressing, a tally of four points should be enough to make it through.

South Korea WIN - 6/4

Draw - 2/1

Czechia WIN - 15/8

Czechia, led by 74-year-old coach Miroslav Koubek, are returning to the World Cup finals for the first time since 2006. Back then, they registered a win over 2026 co-hosts the United States but failed to progress beyond the group stage.

The two teams have met three times in friendly matches, with the record evenly shared: a draw in 1998, a 5-0 win for Czechia in 2001, and a 2-1 victory for South Korea in 2016.

South Korea have grown into a formidable side within the Asian confederation. While some in Europe still debate the legitimacy of their 2002 semi-final run, their position as one of Asia’s strongest contenders for another deep World Cup run is clear.

However, their journey to the semi-finals on home soil 24 years ago remains the only instance in which they won more than one group-stage match. That will be the primary goal for coach Hong Myung-bo and his squad, starting tonight at Estadio Akron.

Concerns have been raised about Hong’s tactical flexibility, but Korean fans are counting on 33-year-old Son Heung-min to produce another memorable World Cup performance and rekindle his chemistry with the dynamic Lee Kang-in.

At present, South Korea possess more individual match-winners than Czechia. While Patrik Schick’s attacking prowess, captain Ladislav Krejci’s leadership, and Tomas Soucek’s timely goals provide strength for the European side, their qualification campaign left lingering doubts about consistency.

This opening fixture is unlikely to be a high-scoring affair. The outcome will probably hinge on fine details and key moments rather than open play.

Fans can watch South Korea vs Czechia in Group A of the 2026 World Cup for free. Complete viewing details are available in our how-to-watch guide.

The game will be broadcast live on ITV in the United Kingdom, FS1 in the United States, and SBS in Australia.

What’s your South Korea vs Czechia prediction? Could Czechia spring an attacking surprise? Share your thoughts below...