The second game of the tournament could be a cracker
South Korea and Czechia get their World Cup campaigns underway when they meet in Group A, with both nations eyeing a crucial three points that could prove decisive in the race for the knockout stages.
Mexico have already laid down a marker in the group after beating South Africa in the tournament opener, meaning neither side will want to start with a defeat.
South Korea arrive at the World Cup with plenty of confidence. The Taeguk Warriors cruised through qualification and remained unbeaten throughout their campaign, showcasing the defensive solidity and attacking quality that has made them one of Asia’s strongest sides.
Only Japan scored more goals than South Korea during AFC qualifying, with Hong Myung-bo’s side netting 40 times while conceding just eight goals across the campaign.
As always, much of the spotlight will fall on captain and talisman Son Heung-min, who is appearing at his fourth World Cup and remains the team’s biggest attacking threat.
Czechia, meanwhile, are making their first World Cup appearance since 2006. They came through a difficult qualifying route and have built a reputation as a physical, well-organised side capable of causing problems from dead-ball situations.
Patrik Schick will lead the line for the Czechs, while captain Tomas Soucek remains a major aerial threat in both boxes.
Both Teams To Score – YES
South Korea possess plenty of attacking quality through Son Heung-min, Lee Kang-in and Hwang Hee-chan, while Czechia have been finding the net consistently in recent months. The Europeans have scored 15 goals in their last five matches and carry a significant threat from set-pieces.
With both sides needing a positive start to their campaign, backing both teams to score at 10/11 with BetWarriors looks a solid play.
Son Heung-min – Anytime Goalscorer
When South Korea need a big moment, they usually turn to Son.
The forward finished among the leading scorers in Asian qualifying and remains the focal point of Korea’s attack. With South Korea averaging 2.5 goals per game during qualification, opportunities should come his way. 7/4 for a goal with BetWarriors looks like a very, very generous price.
Prediction: South Korea 2-1 Czechia
This looks one of the most evenly matched games of the opening round of fixtures. South Korea’s technical quality could give them the edge, but Czechia’s physicality and set-piece strength make them dangerous opponents.
