On 59 minutes Ladislav Krejčí headed the Czechs into the lead from a long throw by Vladimir Coufal. The European side's direct approach and physicality were proving effective in their aerial contest.
Eight minutes later South Korea equalized from open play. Lee Kang-in delivered a fine through ball, and In-Beom Hwang cut inside to curl a low right-footed shot into the far corner. The goal showcased the Koreans' superior technical composure.
Oh Hyeon-gyu sealed the victory late in the match with a low finish from Hwang's cross. The substitute had replaced Son Heung-min, who had squandered at least five clear-cut chances in the first half but remained unable to score. Son is now two goals shy of the all-time national scoring record of 56.
South Korea's technical dominance (62% possession, 464 passes versus 242) against Czech Republic's direct style suggests a match pattern where clear-cut chances may be limited. Son Heung-min's failure to convert five clear opportunities could also impact individual goal scorer markets in his subsequent matches.
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