Hwang In-Beom (hwang in-beom) was central to South Korea’s 2-1 comeback win over Czech Republic, providing a goal and the assist that decided the match in Guadalajara.
South Korea dominated much of the first half but failed to break down the Czech defence, with Son Heung-min producing a notable but off-target effort in the 37th minute.
Czechia opened the scoring in the 58th minute when Ladislav Krejci connected with a Vladimir Coufal long throw and headed past Kim Seung-gyu to make it 1-0.
Ten minutes later Hwang equalised after a pass from Lee Kang-in, chipping Matej Kovar to level the score at 1-1, and the sides remained level despite a later Czech set-piece that was ruled offside.
In the 80th minute Hwang again played the decisive role, crossing for Oh Hyeon-gyu, who finished with his left to give South Korea the lead and ultimately the victory.
The win left South Korea second in Group A with three points, level on points with Mexico and placed behind only by goal difference, while Czech Republic remained without points and behind South Africa on goal difference.
Player Profile And Reactions
Hwang’s influence drew attention beyond the scoreline, with outlets noting how he orchestrated play and completed a match-high number of passes, a detail highlighted by Eurosport’s Dutch edition.
Media coverage traced Hwang’s club and national path, with Money Today recounting his early military service, Asian Games gold and the transfer to Vancouver, a move he accepted for the club’s benefit despite personal disappointment.
Reports noted Hwang’s career has included spells at Rubin Kazan, Olympiakos, Crvena Zvezda and Feyenoord, and that he had missed late-season club action while tending to an ankle issue and observing Robin van Persie’s work.
ESPN was cited for saying Hwang receives less attention than some teammates but that his ability is beyond doubt, and Dutch outlets including De Telegraaf and AD celebrated his decisive role after the match.
