South Korea-Czechia Half-Time: 0-0

In the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A match, South Korea and Czech Republic faced each other at Estadio Akron in Zapopan. The two teams closed the first half goalless. South Korea started the match more dominantly but the lack of finishing in the final touches did not change the score.

The first half statistics clearly revealed South Korea's pressure. Expected goals (xG) South Korea 0.52 to Czechia 0.29; possession 55% to 45%; total shots South Korea 8 to Czechia 2; big chance 0 for both teams; touches in the opposition box South Korea 8 to Czechia 4.

The critical moments of the first half came in stoppage time. In the 45+2, Heung-Min Son met the ball with an accurate pass inside the penalty area and his shot trying to beat the goalkeeper went over the bar. A minute later in the 45+3, In-Beom Hwang received the pass; despite having multiple options around him he opted for a long-range strike and the ball went over. These two situations were moments when the first half could have ended in South Korea's favour.

Egyptian referee Omar Artan is officiating the match. Estadio Akron is hosting the opener with 46,232 people. In the second half, both teams are expected to intensify their search for goals; Hong Myung-Bo's side will take the field to maintain pressure, while Martin Koubek's team will look to equalise through counter-attacks.

Image: vietnam.vn