South Korea is participating in its 11th consecutive World Cup, while the Czech Republic returns to the global stage for the first time since 2006.

South Korea secured an early qualification spot in the Asian qualifiers and concluded its preparation phase smoothly with a victory over El Salvador and a 5-0 demolition of Trinidad&Tobago. The Czech Republic, however, endured a challenging qualification journey before earning their ticket to North America through a dramatic play-off series, defeating both the Republic of Ireland and Denmark in penalty shootouts.

Forward Son Heung-min alongside coach Hong Myung-bo at a press conference in Guadalajara, Mexico on 10/6. *Reuters*.

The match between South Korea and the Czech Republic will take place at Guadalajara stadium, situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level. This high-altitude setting is expected to significantly deplete the players' stamina. South Korea favors a fast-paced playing style emphasizing small-group coordination, whereas the Czech Republic focuses on direct long balls combined with physical strength. Notably, one-half of the Czech Republic's 2026 World Cup qualification goals originated from set-piece situations, accounting for 11 goals.

In the FIFA rankings, South Korea stands at 25th, 14 places higher than the Czech Republic. Opta's supercomputer predicts South Korea has a 42,9% chance of winning this match, while the Czech Republic's win probability is 31,1%.

The two teams have not frequently met. Their last three friendly matches resulted in one win for each side and one draw. The most recent encounter was in 6/2016, where South Korea defeated the Czech Republic 2-1. This match, however, marks their first meeting on the World Cup stage.

South Korea maintains an unbeaten streak, with 11 wins and 5 draws, scoring 40 goals against opponents. The Czech Republic enters this opening match with a six-game winning streak across all competitions, including two recent friendlies against Kosovo and Guatemala.

South Korea continues under the guidance of coach Hong Myung-bo, who prioritizes disciplined play, quick transitions, and leveraging the speed of his attacking players. The "Land of the Morning Calm" team reached the semifinals of the 2002 World Cup and most recently advanced to the round of 16 in 2022.

Regarding personnel, Hong Myung-bo places his full trust in captain Son Heung-min, who is eager to score two more goals to equal South Korea's all-time scoring record. Supporting the LAFC forward will be familiar teammates such as Hwang Hee-chan, Lee Jae-sung, and Lee Kang-in.

The Czech Republic brings a resilient squad to the tournament, led by new captain Ladislav Krejci. Striker Patrik Schick remains their most dangerous attacking spearhead, receiving strong support from playmaker Pavel Sulc and experienced midfielder Tomas Soucek. Guarding the goal is penalty shootout hero Matej Kovar.

The match's biggest flashpoint will likely be South Korea's counter-attacking prowess against the Czech defense. If Son Heung-min finds space to accelerate, the Asian team could make a difference with just a few quick transitions. Conversely, the Czech Republic will probably seek to exploit crosses and set-piece situations for Schick. The duel between Schick and Kim Min-jae could determine success in aerial battles.

The midfield will also be a crucial area. Soucek represents the Czech Republic's strength and pressing ability, while South Korea leans on the technical skill of Lee Kang-in and dynamic midfielders. The team that controls the midfield will gain an advantage in dictating the match's tempo.

For South Korea, the objective is a favorable start to maintain their status as a team that consistently progresses beyond the group stage. For the Czech Republic, this match offers an opportunity to prove their return is more than symbolic. Guadalajara will therefore witness a contest between South Korea's World Cup experience and the Czech Republic's desire for reassertion, in a match promising tension and tactical depth.

Vy Anh