Hwang In-beom Shines: Goal and Assist Lead South Korea Past Czech Republic

Hwang In-beom played a pivotal role in South Korea's 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their opening match of the 2026 North American World Cup qualifiers. The midfielder, who had been sidelined with an ankle injury, showcased his full recovery by scoring the equalizer and setting up the winning goal.

The South Korean team had focused on ensuring Hwang's optimal condition for the qualifiers, as he had been a key "field commander" since the 2022 Qatar World Cup. He sustained an ankle injury in March while playing for his club, Feyenoord, which delayed his recovery and led to an early end to his season. Upon returning to Korea last month, he concentrated on rehabilitation with the national team's medical staff and physical trainers.

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He received a precise lob pass from Lee Kang-in. With a skillful turn, he evaded both an opposing defender and the goalkeeper before slotting the ball into the net with his right foot, marking his first-ever World Cup goal.

Hwang's efforts paid off spectacularly in the match. Trailing 1-0 in the 67th minute, he received a precise lob pass from Lee Kang-in. With a skillful turn, he evaded both an opposing defender and the goalkeeper before slotting the ball into the net with his right foot, marking his first-ever World Cup goal.

He wasn't finished contributing offensively. In the 80th minute, with the score tied 1-1, Hwang provided the assist for Oh Hyun-gyu's decisive winning goal. His performance highlighted his indispensable value to the South Korean squad, proving he has fully overcome his injury concerns.

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In the 80th minute, with the score tied 1-1, Hwang provided the assist for Oh Hyun-gyu's decisive winning goal.