On June 12, these national teams will clash on Matchday 1 in Group A. It’s crucial for both sides not to lose: with games against Mexico and South Africa still to come, a poor start could immediately complicate their chances of advancing to the knockout stage. 1xBet review explains in what condition the opponents are heading into the match and what to expect from this fixture.
South Korea gaining momentum ahead of the tournament
The team comfortably made it through the qualification by relying on discipline, speed, and accurate finishing. Hong Myung-bo’s side demonstrated their strength in their recent friendlies, thrashing Trinidad and Tobago 5-0 and then beating El Salvador 1-0. These matches showed that the Taegeuk Warriors are capable of maintaining a high tempo and creating chances throughout the whole match.
But activity in attack alone won’t be enough against the Czech Republic: they are strong in one-on-one situations, perform well from set pieces, and have several players with extensive experience in the top leagues.
Son Heung-min remains the star of the attack, but South Korea have other options up front. Lee Kang-in and Hwang Hee-chan are fast and skilful players who enable the Taegeuk Warriors to launch quick attacks.
Czech Republic relying on physicality and set pieces
This team is returning to the main football tournament for the first time since 2006. Under Ivan Hašek, the Repre finished second in their qualifying group, and then changed coach, appointing the experienced Miroslav Koubek. In the play-offs, the 74-year-old manager led his men to victory over two tough opponents – the Republic of Ireland and Denmark. The Czechs drew 2-2 with both sides but proved stronger in the penalty shootouts.
Ahead of the start of the tournament, the Czech Republic won both of their friendlies, though they did concede in both matches. In the game against Kosovo (2-1), Koubek tested his immediate reserves and several new pairings on the pitch, while against Guatemala (3-1), he fielded a lineup close to his first-choice options. These matches confirmed that the Czechs still have problems in defense, despite Koubek’s pragmatic style of football.
The Czech Republic players are confident in one-on-one situations and have the upper hand in terms of physical strength. Particular mention should be made of West Ham’s Tomáš Souček, who dominates the opposition’s penalty area during set pieces. This is precisely what could pose a problem for South Korea in the upcoming encounter.
Who is the favorite?
The last time the teams met was in 2016: South Korea won 2-1 in a friendly match in Prague. However, 10 years on, both sides have changed significantly, and that game is hardly relevant now.
Mexico are considered the group favorites, so the clash between the Czech Republic and South Korea could prove decisive in the battle for second place. The odds offered by 1xBet suggest almost equal chances: a win for Hong Myung-bo’s side is estimated at 2.73, a draw at 3.20, and a victory for the Czech Republic at 2.83. This is a battle with no clear favorites, so the first goal scored could prove crucial.
South Korea might have a slight advantage: their quick counterattacks and the quality of their key players could make the difference. But the Czechs know how to close down space, impose their style of play, and capitalize on the opposition’s mistakes.
Don’t miss South Korea’s first match at the World Football Forum!
