The World Cup 2026 action continues as Czech Republic and South Korea face off in the second Group A match in Zapopan.
Son Heung Min has had several sighters at goal, but his accuracy has been lacking so far in a goalless first half.
Earlier on day one, three players were sent off in the opening game for the first time in World Cup history as co-hosts Mexico defeated nine-man South Africa in a chaotic match at a raucous Estadio Azetca in Mexico City. Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were shown red cards for South Africa before Mexico captain Cesar Montes was sent off in stoppage time. Three red cards is the most in a single World Cup game since 2006.
There was also an emotional moment for Raul Jimenez, who doubled Mexico’s lead with a second-half header six years after suffering a life-threatening fractured skull when playing for Wolves against Arsenal. He appeared to have tears in his eyes as he celebrated with his team-mates. Earlier, Music icons Shakira and Burna Boy headlined a star-studded opening ceremony at Estadio Azteca – the first of three at the tournament, with the US and Canada also hosting their own ceremonies tomorrow.
Follow all the action from the World Cup 2026 below:
Son squanders another opportunity
55 mins – South Korea 0-0 Czech Republic
Another big chance for Son Heung-min goes begging, as Kovar rushes out and smothers the shot with his body. Son was through on goal and really should have put Korea ahead there!
South Korea 0-0 Czech Republic
The second half is underway in Mexico, and Czechia are on the attack.
Son Heung Min squanders South Korea chance as Czech Republic survive
45+2 mins – South Korea 0-0 Czech Republic
Son Heung Min has missed another chance for South Korea with Czech Republic desperate for half-time.
The LAFC star started the move and the slick movement was impressive with the delicate reverse ball affording him a great look at goal after crashing the box.
But Son slipped at the crucial moment, still 0-0.
Czech Republic on the ropes as Son Heung Min fires wide for South Korea
40 mins – South Korea 0-0 Czech Republic
South Korea should be ahead! Czech Republic are on the ropes here, with Son Heung Min firing off shots at Matej Kovar’s goal.
But the LAFC star is unable to find the target, despite time and space, on two occasions as we approach the break.
It should be noted, the hydration break disrupted the tempo of the game, just like it did in Mexico City between Mexico and South Africa.
Czech Republic growing in confidence after weathering South Korea storm
30 mins – South Korea 0-0 Czech Republic
South Korea’s play has been met by a stubborn a Czech Republic outfit.
Despite holding 53% possession, with 34% to Czech Republic and 13% “in contest,” in the words of FS1, there is a growing confidence in Miroslav Koubek’s side.
They are growing into this contest. 0-0.
CHANCE! South Korea goes close through Son Heung Min
12 mins – South Korea 0-0 Czech Republic
Lee Jae-Sung was in behind for South Korea, with Czech Republic carved open.
A lovely lay-off for Son Heung Min, but his shot is deflected wide.
And then Lee Kang-In has a swing, the ball is moving all over the place, but Matej Kovar punches it clear. All Korea so far!
South Korea v Czech Republic
John Terry tips South Africa to rediscover identity after World Cup setback
“Every game is so difficult,” John Terry says. “It’s a really young group, they’ll be better for this.
“I want to see passion, in the games I’ve seen, it’s front-foot, from the outside, there’s a gameplan. Tonight, are we building up from the back, I’m not sure, are we going direct or long, I’m not sure.
“We don’t know what South Africa team that was tonight, we want to see a South Africa team that is passionate and gives it a go.”
