South Korea began their FIFA World Cup campaign on a winning note with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic on Thursday, overcoming a series of missed opportunities to secure all three points in their Group A opener.

The Koreans dominated much of the contest but had to wait until the closing stages to find the winning goal, with substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu striking in the 80th minute to seal the victory.

Led by captain Son Heung-min, South Korea controlled possession and created numerous chances in the first half but were unable to convert their dominance into goals. Son came close on multiple occasions, first firing over the crossbar before weaving past two defenders only to send his effort wide.

Despite South Korea’s superiority, it was the Czech Republic that opened the scoring early in the second half. Against the run of play, Ladislav Krejci rose highest at the near post to power a header beyond goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu and give his side a surprise lead.

South Korea continued to press forward and eventually found an equaliser in the 67th minute through Hwang In-beom. The midfielder displayed composure inside the penalty area, feinting a shot before delicately lifting the ball over Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar.

The Czechs briefly thought they had regained the lead, but a goal was ruled out, providing South Korea with a crucial reprieve.

Hwang then turned provider for the decisive goal, delivering a cross from the right flank that was expertly finished by substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu with 10 minutes remaining.

The final whistle sparked celebrations among the South Korean players, with Son visibly relieved after his side’s persistence finally paid off.

The victory gives South Korea an important three points ahead of a crucial Group A clash against co-hosts Mexico on June 18. Mexico opened the tournament with a 2-0 win over South Africa earlier on Thursday.

The Czech Republic will look to bounce back when they face South Africa in Atlanta on the same day.