sports
South Korea edges Czechia 2-1 in 2026 World Cup opener played above 1,500 meters
The national team secured its first win of the tournament at altitude in Mexico. President Lee Jae Myung praised the players and coaching staff on X.
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South Korea defeated Czechia 2-1 in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday local time in Mexico. The match took place at an altitude of over 1,500 meters above sea level. Yonhap reported the result as South Korea's fourth opening-match victory in World Cup history, following wins in 2002, 2006 and 2010.
The team advanced to the knockout phase in 2002 and 2010. " He added that he is "proud" of the players, the coach and the coaching staff. "Despite a tough environment, over 1,500 meters above sea level, (the team) did not lose its concentration and turned the game around, presenting great joy to the people," President Lee Jae Myung stated.
He encouraged the team to show off its prowess in the remaining games and said the people will root for the players as supporters. m. next Thursday at Estadio Guadalajara.
President Lee Jae Myung spoke at a joint press conference with Italian President Sergio Mattarella on June 11, 2026, at the presidential palace in Rome. kr.
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