South Korea vs Czechia – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·11 Juni 2026

South Korea vs Czechia – Predicted lineup and team news

South Korea and Czechia begin their FIFA World Cup campaigns with a clash in Guadalajara on Friday, both aiming to make a strong and confident start to the tournament.

South Korea managed to recover after a difficult opening phase in their 2026 preparations. They endured back-to-back defeats in early friendlies, suffering a heavy loss against Ivory Coast and a narrow defeat to Austria. However, the Tigers of Asia regained momentum at the right moment, producing an emphatic 5-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago before edging past El Salvador 1-0. They now head into the World Cup on the back of two consecutive wins.

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South Korea team news

Heading into this crucial opener, South Korea are dealing with major defensive concerns.

Key centre-back Kim Tae-hyeon picked up a serious ankle injury during a closed training session and will miss the entire group stage. The team has opted not to call up a replacement.

The situation worsened after defender Cho Yu-min had already withdrawn from the squad due to a foot injury, leading to uncapped Jo Wi-je being brought in as his replacement.

In midfield, promising youngster Bae Jun-ho is also unavailable for this match as he continues to recover from an ankle problem, though he is expected to return next week.

Despite these setbacks, South Korea still possess strong attacking quality. Captain Son Heung-min is fully fit and ready to lead the attack, supported by winger Hwang Hee-chan.

At the back, Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae will take on added responsibility as he looks to organize and stabilize a weakened defence.

South Korea predicted lineup

Possible South Korea starting XI: Kim Seung-gyu; Lee Gi-hyuk, Kim Min-jae, Lee Han-beom; Seol Young-woo, Hwang In-beom, Paik Seung-ho, Lee Tae-seok; Hwang Hee-chan, Lee Jae-sung; Son Heung-min