Olympics men’s hockey, South Korea vs. Czech Republic results and highlights
By Staff
The South Korean men’s hockey team showed well in their debut at the Olympic Games as the host country, but couldn’t hold off the Czech Republic.
Group A is beginning to heat up with what was a terrific game between the South Korean and Czech Republic men’s hockey teams at the 2018 Winter Olympics. The host country was expected to be beaten badly by the Czechs, who came into the contest as one of the favorites to medal.
Instead, South Korea jumped out in front seven minutes into the game on a goal by Minho Cho, sending the crowd into a furious celebration. For the Koreans, the goal was not only their first of the tournament but the first in their Olympic history for the men’s team, something Cho will have all to himself.
"“This was huge,” said Korean coach Jim Paek, the first Korean-born player in the NHL and a Stanley Cup winner. “First night in the Olympics. First game ever in the Olympics. First goal scored in the Olympics. It was a fantastic night for sure.”"
Unfortunately for the hosts, it would be their only goal of the night. The Czechs would rally later in the first period on a goal by Jan Kovar. The game-winner would come from Michal Repik on a short-handed chance, giving the game a final score of 2-1.
Highlights
The much talked about North Korean cheer team in attendance at the Czech Republic/South Korea men’s hockey game. pic.twitter.com/xwOsoYELLD
— Gord Miller 🌻 (@GMillerTSN) February 15, 2018
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What’s next
The standings in Group A have the Canadians and Czechs both atop the table with three points each after their respective wins on Thursday. Canada rolled over Switzerland, 5-1, in the other contest. South Korea and Switzerland are without any points, but will have a chance to get some when the two teams play against each other on Saturday morning (American Eastern Standard Time).