FIFA insists the attendance figure for the World Cup clash between South Korea and Czech Republic was accurate after pictures appeared to show thousands of empty seats.

Czechia, who beat Ireland in a play-off in March to qualify for the World Cup in the USA and Canada, lost their tournament opener to South Korea after ex-Celtic striker Oh Hyeon-gyu scored a late winn

FIFA World Cup 2026 Day 1 Highlights: 3 red cards marred Mexico vs South Africa opener despite the co-hosts securing a 2-0 win. In the second game of the day, South Korea defeated Czechia 2-1.

FIFA have released a statement regarding the empty seats during the World Cup match between South Korea and Czechia.

South Korea defeated Czechia 2–1 in a FIFA World Cup group match after recovering from a set-piece goal conceded in the second half. Tactical adjustments, higher tempo play and a late counter-attack helped secure victory after dominating possession earlier.

South Korea and Czech Republic are underway in their Group A clash on the opening day of the 2026 World Cup. Estadio Akron plays host as LAFC’s Son Heung-min captains Korea and the Czechs return to the tournament for the first time since 2006.

Second-half goals by Oh Hyeon-gyu and Hwang In-beom steered South Korea to a win over Czechia in a Group A encounter.