South Korea manager Hong Myung-bo applauds team cohesion after rallying to beat Czechs

After going behind to a second-half header from Ladislav Krejci, the South Koreans fought back with strikes from Hwang In-beom and Oh Hyeon-gyu to clinch three vital points in Guadalajara.

"Before the match I gave two messages: do not give up until the final whistle and stay united as one," he told a press conference. "Whether on the pitch or on the bench, we need to play as a single team."

The win arrived despite an unusually poor performance from captain Son Heung-min, who squandered five opportunities in the first half alone before being substituted for the eventual match-winner Oh.

Despite the wayward display, the manager was swift to protect his experienced forward.

"Son is our best player and a very reliable captain. We believe Son gave his best," the manager said, though he noted the team needed to "sharpen up" when finishing their opportunities.

South Korea are level on three points with Mexico at the top of the group, setting up a crucial encounter against the co-hosts of the tournament on June 18.

"Both teams have three points ... the next match will be very important," Hong said.