Outgoing KFA chief applauds South Korea's comeback win over Czech Republic

By Jung Yoon-hee, The Herald Business

Korea Football Association President Chung Mong-gyu, who is set to step down from his post, offered words of encouragement to the South Korean national team after its comeback victory over the Czech Republic in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Chung posted a photo taken before the South Korea-Czech Republic match on his social media account on Friday, writing that "in the scorching heat of Mexico, half a world away, our national team marked its first match with a precious victory."

"We conceded first and faced an early crisis, but our players kept their composure and fought back with mental strength to the very end, securing the comeback win," he said. "I give my wholehearted applause to the players' fighting spirit — they magnificently overcame the pressure of the World Cup stage and stayed focused until the final whistle."

South Korea, coached by Hong Myung-bo, defeated the Czech Republic 2-1 in Group A of the World Cup on Friday at Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico. Hwang In-beom of Feyenoord and Oh Hyeon-gyu of Besiktas scored in succession to complete the turnaround.

Chung watched the match from the VIP box alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino and others. After the final whistle, he went down to the pitch to personally congratulate the players.

"I sincerely thank the players and coaching staff, who got off to a brilliant start, as well as the football fans in Mexico and back home in Korea who cheered with all their hearts, regardless of the time difference," Chung said. He closed his post by asking fans to "continue sending your unwavering support and encouragement to the team for the rest of the journey ahead."

Chung announced his resignation on May 29, saying he intended to step down as KFA president after the World Cup.